Friday, July 29, 2005

Fixed Rate or Adjustable?

Fixed rate or adjustable rate mortgages are two choices of mortgage loans that most lenders will offer you. Deciding which loan makes the most sense for you, depends on your financial situation, how long you plan to live in the home, the current interest rates, and what risks you are willing to take.

Understanding the benefits as well as the risks of each loan will help you decide if a fixed rate or adjustable rate loan works best for you.

Fixed Rate Home Loan

A fixed rate home loan offers you monthly mortgage payments of principal and interest that never change for the life of your loan. A fixed rate home loan is very stable and that is the reason why it is the most popular way to finance a home today.

Fixed rate home loans are available as 30, 20, 15 and 10 year loans and they make sense if you answer yes to the following:

  • Plan to live in your home more than 5 years
  • Want the stability of a fixed monthly mortgage payment
  • Don't want to risk future monthly mortgage payment increases

    Some fixed rate home loans can be converted into biweekly mortgages which shortens the life of your loan. By paying your monthly mortgage payment every two weeks, you make one extra payment a year for a total of 26 payments. You pay less interest on your loan and build equity faster.

    It makes sense to finance a home with a fixed rate home loan only if you plan to live in your home for 5 years or longer. That is because in the early amortization period of a fixed rate home loan, the biggest percentage of your monthly mortgage payment is applied toward interest. Only a small amount is applied toward the principal but that will gradually reverse itself as the loan ages.

    Adjustable Rate Loans

    Adjustable rate loans make sense if you are going to live in your home less than five years. Adjustable rate loans can be easier to qualify for and that may make it easier for you to initially get into a home. You can always refinance to a fixed rate home loan later if your future income is going to increase.

    Adjustable rate loans start at an introductory rate which is a lower interest rate than a fixed rate home loan. The low introductory rate makes your monthly mortgage payment lower than a fixed rate home loan.

    But these loans carry a little more risk because the trade-off for lower payments of an adjustable rate loan is the uncertainty of the amount of your monthly mortgage payment. However, most adjustable rate loans have cap protections so your monthly mortgage payment doesn't go up too quickly.

    Adjustable rate loans make sense if you answer yes to the following:

  • Plan to move before 5 years
  • Can afford a higher monthly mortgage payment if interest rates go up
  • You believe that mortgage interest rates will remain the same or decline in the future

    Everyone has different circumstances and only you can decide if the risks or advantages are in your best interests. These tips should help you decide if a fixed rate home loan or adjustable rate loan will work best for you.

    Copyright ©  2005  Credit Repair Facts.com  All Rights Reserved.

    This article is supplied by Credit Repair Facts.com where you will find credit information, debt elimination programs and informative facts that give you the knowledge to correct your own credit and credit report. For more credit related articles like these go to: Credit Related Articles
  • Sunday, July 24, 2005

    Spinning Exercise

    Spinning exercise or studio cycling is very popular these days and an excellent form of fitness. It helps strengthen your heart and tone your glutes, calves and thighs. It is also a great exercise to slim legs.

    This form of exercise is especially popular for people who don’t care for traditional exercise classes. The spinning exercise classes usually consist of about 12 to 20 people. Classes range from 50 to 60 minutes and they are set to music.

    The instructor takes the class on a ride that includes all types of terrain to get that great spinning workout you’re looking for. One of the many benefits of spinning is you will always feel like you’re keeping up with the class because everyone finishes at the same time.

    A special spinning bicycle that has a weighted flywheel in the front makes you feel more like you’re riding on a real bicycle. This spinning bike allows you to adjust the tension to keep pedaling within a comfortable range for your fitness level.

    Adjustments can also be made to the handlebars and seat to make it feel comfortable. Here are a few stationary exercise bike tips before you start.

    Always bring a bottle of water to class and take frequent drinks while you ride. Spinning works up a sweat and you need to keep hydrated. Also bringing a small towel will help wipe away the sweat to keep your more comfortable.

    Learn to pace yourself. Classes can be very high energy. Don’t get caught up in the enthusiasm and ride beyond your comfort level.

    Wear padded bike shorts or consider bringing a seat cushion until you get use to the bike seat. They tend to be a little hard on your rear end until you get use to them.

    Sign up for a class and start enjoying the benefits of spinning. Remember like any class, the instructors will vary on their focus. Some take you on an imaginary ride while other concentrate on a more rigorous variety of drills.

    If you find you don’t like the style of one instructor always try another class. It could be just what you’re looking for.

    Using a spinning cycle is an excellent form of exercise. It will give you the aerobic burst you need to get your heart racing and boost your endurance. Spinning exercise consists of climbing on and pedaling to your limit giving you a perfect workout.

    Copyright ©  2005  Treadmill Info.com  All Rights Reserved.

    This article is supplied by Treadmill Info.com where you will find valuable information, ratings, reviews, fitness articles and buying tips before you make the investment in quality fitness equipment.  For more fitness related articles go to: Fitness Articles

    Saturday, July 16, 2005

    Is There A National Do Not Spam List?

    You may have already received a do not spam list email, seen a web site or even heard a radio advertisement that promises to reduce spam email just by submitting your email address.

    Since the federal "Do Not Call List" became law in 2003, it seems logical that a do not spam list exists also. But even though it sounds legitimate, don't believe the hype or the official looking emails.

    According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) attorneys, who are experts at fighting spam email, a national do not spam list registry would not be effective at this time for many reasons.

    The FTC says the high risk of a list like this would actually result in more in-box clutter because illegal spammers would use the registry as a "do spam" list. So the FTC is advising consumers not to submit their email addresses to any organization that claims to be creating a do not spam list.

    The FTC also says emails and web sites that claim to offer a national do not email list or registry could be part of a high-tech scam to trick consumers into disclosing their email address or other sensitive personal information.

    According to the FTC, these web sites and emails may be a way to collect valid email addresses to sell to email spammers. The result could be even more spam for anyone who signs up for the do not spam list.

    Or, it could be worse because some scammers have collected information through bogus web sites that mimic those of legitimate organizations, and then use the information to commit identity theft.

    If you have already submitted your email address to a national do not email list or registry that promises to reduce the amount of spam you receive, you may be a victim of one the latest email scams on the Internet.

    Should you get an unsolicited email claiming to represent a do not email list or registry, an organization to stop spam, or even the FTC itself, forward it to the FTC using this email address - spam@uce.gov .

    If you believe you have already been scammed, file your complaint at FTC - File Complaint, then visit FTC - Identity Theft Resources to learn how to minimize your risk of damage from identity theft.

    You can choose to ignore a do not spam list email or help the FTC with their efforts in fighting spam by forwarding any suspicious emails to them. The important thing is that you don't become a new victim of the do not spam list email scam.


    Copyright © 2005   Spyware Information.com   All Rights Reserved.

    This article is provided by Spyware Information.com where you will find free spyware cleaners, downloads, removal software, valuable tips and regularly updated spyware and identity protection articles.

    Monday, July 11, 2005

    Common Credit Score Myths

    A lot of credit score myths about fico score ratings get spread around and some of them are just outdated information. Sometimes even lenders can give you the wrong advice and it can get confusing. But the bottom line is bad information can cost you money no matter who you get it from.

    Fico score ratings are used by most mortgage lenders, which means, you need to know what will hurt or help your credit score points. So to make it clear, here are some of the most common credit score myths.

    Checking your credit report will hurt your credit score

    Checking your own credit report and credit score counts as a soft inquiry and does not go against your score. However, if anyone else like a lender or credit card company is checking your credit report, this is considered a hard inquiry and will generally knock off about 5 credit score points.

    The credit score rating system treats multiple inquiries in a 14-day period as just one inquiry. The system ignores all inquiries made within 30 days prior to the day the credit score is computed. So if you want to minimize the damage from credit inquiries, shop for a loan in that short period of time.

    Closing old accounts will improve your credit report score

    Sometimes even lenders will tell you to close your old and inactive accounts as a way for improving your credit report score. In most cases, closing old accounts will actually have the opposite effect with the current credit score rating system.

    Canceling old credit accounts can actually lower your credit score because it makes your credit history appear shorter. If you want to reduce your levels of available credit, it's better to reduce or close new accounts instead. What hurts your score more is when you apply for new credit.

    You need to check more than just FICO score rating

    If you ever hear this from anyone, consider it a red flag. All of the three major credit reporting bureaus offer FICO credit score ratings using the formula developed by Fair, Isaac. Even though each one gives the scores a different name you only need a fico score rating from the three major credit reporting bureaus.

    At Equifax, the FICO score rating is called the Beacon credit score. At TransUnion, it’s called Empirica. At Experian, it's known as the Experian/Fair, Isaac Risk Model.

    The reason each of the three major credit reporting bureaus will have three different scores is because they don’t all share the same data. So when checking your credit report, just make sure it comes from the three major credit reporting bureaus: Experian, Trans Union and Equifax.

    Examine your credit reports from all three major credit reporting bureaus before you apply for a big loan like a mortgage. Fix any errors in all three reports before you shop for a loan because it takes time to correct your credit report.

    Credit counseling will hurt your score

    The current FICO credit score rating system ignores any reference to credit counseling that may be in your file. The researchers at Fair, Isaac, the company that created the FICO credit scoring rating system, found that people getting credit counseling didn’t default on their debts any more often than anyone else.

    However, any late payments you've had with creditors will hurt your credit score. Credit counseling can hurt your ability to get a loan because you probably have had trouble paying creditors.

    Some lenders will back away if you are in credit counseling. Others may see it differently, but usually will charge you higher interest rates than if you had perfect credit.

    The best way to improve your credit report score is paying your bills on time and paying down credit card debt. Check your credit report regularly for any errors and make sure you don't fall for these common credit score myths.


    Copyright ©  2005  Credit Repair Facts.com  All Rights Reserved.


    This article is supplied by Credit Repair Facts.com where you will find credit information, debt elimination programs and informative facts that give you the knowledge to correct your own credit and credit report. For more credit related articles like these go to: Credit Related Articles

    Thursday, July 07, 2005

    Tips For Correcting A Golf Slice


    Correcting a golf slice is the quickest way to shave strokes off of your score and enjoy your golf game a lot more.  Slicing a golf ball is one of the most common errors that an average player makes.

    Some golfers are frustrated for years because they never know the cause of a golf slice.  But if you are ever going to become a good golfer, correcting a golf slice is a must.  These simple tips will show you how to cure golf slices just by practicing some basic golf swing tips and instructions.


    Proper Golf Stance

    A proper golf stance should be about as wide as your shoulders.  Make sure your shoulders are aligned at the target.  Point your right foot straight ahead and point your left foot slightly to the left.  Keep your elbows as natural as possible to maintain a proper golf stance.

    Even minor adjustments to your stance can make major changes in where your golf ball will end up.  Practice the proper golf stance at the driving range.  Use small adjustments until you get the results you are looking for.


    Proper Golf Club Grip


    Another common way of correcting a golf slice is making sure you have a proper golf club grip.  Grip the golf club with your left hand and put your thumb along the shaft.

    The line between your thumb and index finger should be pointing toward your right eye.  Wrap your right hand over your left and rest your left thumb into your right palm.

    A mistake most right handed golfers make is gripping the club too strong with the right hand causing the ball to hook towards the left.  But the opposite is true with a slice.  A weak grip creates an open club face causing your ball to slice to the right.

    The best way of correcting a golf slice caused by your grip is roll your hands back so that your nondominant back hand faces the target and your dominant back hand faces the opposite direction.

    Practice the proper golf club grip at the driving range so you can see if this is what's causing you to slice the ball.  Take your time and make adjustments to your grip.  Even though a proper golf club grip seems simple, it is one of the most common ways of correcting a golf slice.


    Correct Golf Swing Mechanics


    Correct golf swing mechanics is another common cure for correcting a golf slice.  A proper golf backswing starts with your hands, is immediately followed by your arms and shoulders all in one smooth motion.

    A proper golf downswing begins with your hips, keeping your eyes on the ball and your head behind the ball as you follow through.  Once you practice correct golf swing mechanics, you'll be amazed at how quick you lower your golf score.

    Becoming a good golfer is a matter of practicing and playing on a regular basis while developing good habits.  Sometimes small changes can make a big difference in your score.  Once you practice correcting a golf slice you'll soon be hearing, "great shot!"


    Copyright © 2005  1 Stop Shopping Online.com.  All Rights Reserved.

    This article is provided by 1 Stop Shopping Online Golf offering you a great selection of new and used golf clubs, golf clothing, accessories and even green fees at fantastic prices.

    Other information about correcting a golf slice

    Monday, July 04, 2005

    Aerobic Activity Burns Fat

    Aerobic activity is any exercise that helps you use oxygen more efficiently. It gets your heart pumping faster, makes you sweat and quickens your breath. When you raise your heart rate your body begins to burn stored carbohydrates and fatty acids for energy.

    Aerobic activity is very effective in controlling your weight and is an ideal way to burn calories. Research shows that a regular aerobic routine, combined with healthy eating habits is the best way to maintain a healthy body.

    Did you know that the heart is a muscle? That means you can make your heart stronger and more efficient. A regular aerobic routine will give your heart the kind of workout that will help it do a better job of delivering oxygen to all your organs.

    Exercise doesn't have to be expensive to be effective. Any activity that raises the heart rate and is maintained for at least 20 minutes is considered aerobic. It can be different types of exercise like jogging, biking, rowing, swimming, dancing or even brisk walking.

    The best workout routine is one that you enjoy doing because you will continue to do something you enjoy. If you vary the different types of exercise it will help keep it fun and exciting. For the best results, do some type of aerobic activity at least 3 to 4 times a week.

    Aerobic exercise helps burn fat calories, increases your metabolism and if done on an empty stomach forces your body to recruit energy from stored fat cells. When you have finished your workout routine your metabolism will remain elevated for about 30 minutes. That means you continue to burn calories after you finish exercising.

    If your goal is to control your weight, exercise your heart, strengthen your muscles or just feel healthier, a low-fat diet and regular aerobic activity will help you achieve and maintain a well toned and fit body. When you exercise the brain releases endorphins that put you in a better mood, make you feel happy and isn't that what life is all about?

    Copyright ©  2005  Treadmill Info.com  All Rights Reserved.


    This article is supplied by Treadmill Info.com where you will find valuable information, ratings, reviews, fitness articles and buying tips before you make the investment in quality fitness equipment.  For more fitness related articles go to: Fitness Articles