29 Critical Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You List

Because Finding the Right Real Estate Agent Can Make All the Difference in the Success or Failure of Your Home Sale

Selling a home involves many critical and personal decisions. However, one of the most important decisions is the first decision you need to make—a decision that impacts your entire home sale:

Which real estate agent should you work with?

Unfortunately, many people make this decision based on the idea that all real estate agents are basically the same. They sign with the first agent to come along, only to realize too late that they should have shopped around.

This article is designed to help you avoid that mistake by equipping you with what to look for in selecting your agent.

Start by asking your friends and family for the names of agents they know. Look around your neighborhood for the signs, ads and marketing materials of active agents in the neighborhood. Once you’ve compiled a list of several names, use this guide to help you determine which agent is best for you.

Here are the questions you should ask each agent:

Question 1

"Could you send me some information about yourself?"

You can often get a good idea of which agents are most professional and most committed by looking at their personal marketing materials—brochures, direct mail, listing presentation book, etc.

Call each name on your list and ask them to send out any information they can before you actually meet with them for a listing presentation. When you get the personal brochure or other materials, look them over and determine your initial impression of this person.

Are the materials they presented professional?

If not, you might ask yourself,

"If they don’t have the wherewithal to properly market themselves, how will they market my home?"

Also, keep track of how quickly and efficiently they respond to your request for information. Are they friendly and helpful? Or just pushy and hungry for a listing?

Does this seem like someone you’d be interested in talking with? If they aren’t organized and professional enough to respond promptly to your first request to find out more about them, they’ll probably handle potential buyers for your home the same way.

If you like the way they respond to you and are impressed with the information they supply, call them and invite them to make a listing presentation to you.

It’s always a good practice to meet with more than one potential agent before making a final decision—usually three to five for sellers.

Just make sure that you don’t meet with more than one from the same company. This could cause internal strife which would be counterproductive in marketing your home.

Question 2

"How do you approach your work?"

What you should be looking for, first and foremost, is an honest and knowledgeable individual, who works full-time, represents a solid and reputable real estate agency, and will treat your best interests as paramount. Length of time in the business, track record of success, previous experience, expertise in and knowledge of the local real estate market—all of these are factors to consider.

While the right agent to market your home may not be number one in every aspect, you want to make sure that the person you hire is a well-rounded individual whom you can trust and respect as a professional.

Question 3

"How many homes have you listed in the past six months?"

Look for an agent who is active in your area and has experience dealing with homes and situations like yours. This is especially critical if your home or transaction has special features or terms that may make it more challenging than the typical home sale.

Question 4

"How many homes have you sold in the last six months?"

Beware of agents who simply gather listings and let them sit and wait for someone else to sell them.

Your agent should have a good track record getting homes sold, which is, after all, your ultimate goal.

Question 5

"What is the average length of time your listings are on the market?"

You may automatically assume the shorter time on the market, the better. But take note:

If an average length of time on the market is significantly faster than the average for homes in the area, is it because this agent is more effective or because he or she likes to low-ball the asking price in order to get homes sold more quickly?

Also, take a look at what the original asking prices are for homes the agent lists versus what the homes finally sell for. This "swing" number will tell you how effective the agent is at helping clients determine the right asking price and doing what it takes to help them get it.

Question 6

"How long have you been in the business?"

Depending on the agent’s background and track record, there is no hard and fast rule for what to look for here.

An agent may have been a licensed real estate professional for 15 years, but only selling part-time and never really an active seller—maybe only handling one or two transactions per year.

Whereas another agent may have only just become licensed one or two years ago, but has a background in real estate finance, worked in real estate law for a number of years or has been a private real estate investor and has bought and sold more than 20 homes himself in the last 10 years.

Either way, you need to find someone who has an in-depth knowledge of the legal ins and outs of the business as well as the characteristics of the local market, and has demonstrated competence and professionalism in getting homes sold.

Question 7

"What professional organizations do you belong to?"

The minimum here should be a fully licensed professional who’s a member of the local real estate board and multiple listing service as well as the state and National Association of Realtors.®

Local community groups and business associations may also be pluses in terms of networking and insight into the community

However, make sure your agent is focused on what’s important—selling your home.

Question 8

"Do you have a personal assistant or other

support staff working for you?"

Some agents employ an assistant or staff. This doesn’t necessarily mean better service, but it can be an indicator that the agent treats selling real estate as a business.

By employing someone to handle the small details, he or she can devote more time to serving your needs.

However, be sure you know up front how much involvement you can expect directly from your agent, and how much is usually handled by someone else. It may be fine that most of your interaction after the listing is with an assistant or other staff member as long as you don’t feel passed off onto someone else and you are kept informed of exactly what the agent is doing to get your home sold.

Question 9

"Do you have any questions for me?"

In the interview, look for an agent who asks pointed, specific questions, not someone who’s just filling in blanks on a form.

That’s the sign of someone who is already thinking about your situation and is creating a plan of action specifically for you rather than just using a cookie-cutter approach for every client.

Make sure you feel comfortable being around this person—you will be relying on his or her expertise.

Question 10

"What marketing approach will you use for my home?"

Despite having the same basic marketing tools at their disposal—Multiple Listing Service, company tours, Board of Realtors® tours, fliers and brochures, for sale signs, MLS lock boxes, public open houses, advertising, direct mail and personal networking—every real estate professional has a different marketing strategy.

Learn each agent’s marketing philosophy, and determine what will work for you.

Make sure the agent you choose doesn’t rely on the same marketing tool for every sale. What worked for yesterday’s seller may not get the results you want. The key is to find an agent who will use all the tools available to your best advantage.

Question 11

"Will you produce a flier or brochure for my home and what will it look like?"

Take a careful look at the materials the agent has produced to market their current listings. Do the quality, design and wording of the materials seem to present each home in the best light?

Put yourself in a potential buyer’s shoes: Would you be interested in the homes after seeing these materials?

Question 12

"How often will you hold open houses? Will they be public, broker-only or ‘by appointment only?’ How do you feel open houses will work best for my home?"

Simply putting a sign on your lawn and holding an open house every Sunday afternoon will not get your home sold.

In addition, a house held open too frequently can begin to look like a loser, making it a prime target for low-ball bidders.

Your agent should have a carefully-planned rationale for each open house and it should be just one facet of a complete marketing plan.

Question 13

"What is your advertising plan for my home?"

Most people believe that advertising a home in the newspaper is the way a home gets sold. Unfortunately, this is simply not the case. The truth is: Good real estate agents sell homes. And they do this through their own personal advertising, networking, skill, and creative advertising methods like the Internet, toll-free hotlines and fax marketing that give potential buyers 24-hour access to information about your home.

Don’t be concerned with traditional methods of advertising houses. Make sure your agent uses innovative, cutting edge methods that make your home stand out from the rest.

Question 14

"How else will the property be exposed to other agents?"

Exposure is the key to any home sale. In many cases your home will be sold because another agent knows a buyer who is looking for a home like yours.

Beyond simply listing your home in the MLS, your agent should be using a wide variety of techniques to let those other agents know about your home and keep them aware of it until it is sold.

Question 15

"Are you going to help me in staging my home?"

Preparing a property for sale, or "staging" it, is very important in maximizing the value and minimizing the time on the market.

If a prospective agent does not mention this aspect of the sale on his own during the listing presentation, he probably has no plan to offer this service to you.

Or he may be afraid of bringing it up for fear of offending you by telling you about negative aspects of your home that should be changed—or positives that need to be highlighted—to increase its appeal to potential buyers.

A confident and competent agent will find ways of broaching the subject and let you know of specific ideas—beyond baking bread and putting out fresh flowers for open houses—to make your home more salable.

Question 16

"What will you do to keep me informed?"

Do you want weekly, daily or hourly reports from your agent? Are you comfortable with letters, phone calls, or do you want to discuss matters in person?

Determine how much communication you want, then find an agent who will give you the attention and time you deserve.

Question 17

"What listing price do you recommend for my home and what is that price based on?"

Pricing your home is the most critical step to selling it, and you should choose a Realtor® who has the knowledge to price your home wisely.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Don’t go with a "yes man" who will promise a high price in order to get your listing—your home may languish on the market.

Don’t let an agent talk you into an artificially low price designed simply to sell as fast as possible.

Do have each agent justify the price through comparable properties and facts about the market.

The selling price should attract prospective buyers to your home, get you top dollar in the current market and reflect the condition of your house.

Be realistic. A good Realtor® will be honest with you about the value of your home and have the cold, hard facts to justify that value—both to you and to prospective buyers.

Question 18

"Can you provide me with further resources that I may need?"

Most agents work with a team of professionals in many fields, including title, escrow, mortgage, home inspection, pest control, carpet cleaning, etc. While you are not obligated to work with an agent’s team, often you may find it is the optimum way to go.

The best agents have built strong relationships with their "teams," and can often get expedient service or be able to "cash in a favor" for your transaction should a crunch or problem arise.

Question 19

"Can you give me some references from other clients you have worked with?"

Don’t be afraid to ask for references. This is not confidential information, even though many sellers would never think to ask for it.

Real estate transactions are a matter of public record, and if you want to take the time to go down to the courthouse, you could compile your own list.

However, any agent who provides good service and is proud of his or her work will be happy to provide references.

If possible, contact a few of these references directly. Check to see how well the situations described by these previous clients fit your situation, particularly if you have a complex transaction or special circumstance that requires specific expertise.

Question 20

"What does the listing agreement entail?"

Have the agent go over every detail of the listing agreement with you before you ever sign it.

This is a legally binding document and your agent should be open and up front with you about exactly what you’re signing.

Ask to know exactly what each portion means and be aware of what the contract will legally obligate you and the agent to do.

Question 21

"What are the beginning and expiration dates of the listing agreement?"

This information should be included on the agreement itself and, should a dispute arise later, could be crucial in determining commission payments.

Beware of agents who want you to agree to a very long listing period.

Unless they can provide compelling reasons why your sale should take longer, generally three months is a good amount of time for a listing agreement.

Also remember that the listing agreement is designed to protect not just you but the agent as well.

Good agents work hard for their commissions and deserve just as much open communication and straightforward dealings as you do.

Question 22

"What are the amount of brokerage fees I will be paying?"

The customary fee generally ranges between five and seven percent although brokerage fees are not fixed by law and are negotiable.

However, whether you pay a fee that is higher or lower, you generally get what you pay for.

Especially beware of agents who are willing up front to take a reduction in their commission. It may well mean that they never intend to spend much time, effort or money in selling your home to begin with.

Question 23

"What other fees or charges do need to be aware of?"

Title insurance, escrow charges, closing costs and prorated insurance, taxes, rent, home owner’s association dues, etc.—the individual circumstances of your transaction and the needs of your buyer will all impact your final financial obligation.

Be sure your agent goes over all the costs that may be incurred so that you’ll be prepared.

Question 24

"What disclosure laws or special zones apply to me and what do I need to provide?"

You and your agent will both need to provide specific disclosure forms regarding your transaction and your property. Also, if you live in an earthquake-, flood- or other disaster-prone area, special statements—or special study zones reports—may be required.

Your agent should be able to help you locate professional inspectors for the various mandatory home inspections.

Most agents will help you organize a home marketing file—including a property fact sheet, a property transfer disclosure statement, pest control report, applicable C.C. & R.s, applicable special study zones report, available soils or structural engineering report, property profile from the title company, applicable plans for alterations or additions, any home warranty plan offered and applicable special equipment report for pools, spas, sprinkler and alarm systems, etc.

Question 25

"What is a home protection plan and should consider purchasing one to facilitate my sale?"

There are many ways to enhance the salability of your home and sweeten the deal for prospective buyers. You may not need them, but you should know what they are and how they may or may not benefit you.

Question 26

"How will you determine the qualification of potential buyers?"

Ask what procedures the agent will use to make sure that you don’t waste any time dealing with dead-end offers or escrows that can’t be closed.

Question 27

"What happens if my home doesn’t sell in the allotted time or if I decide not to sell my home?"

Much of the answer to this question should be spelled out in the listing agreement. Make sure your agent goes over every part of it with you.

Be sure to find out whether your contract contains a "liquidated damages" clause.

These are designed to specify a dollar amount you would be liable for should you decide to take your house off the market before the expiration date of the agreement.

Question 28

"What’s the best way for me to get in touch with you?"

In this age of expanding technology and instant communication, most agents have pagers, voice mail and voice messaging services.

You should know exactly how to get through to your agent, his or her assistant, or a messaging service in case of an emergency 24 hours a day.

Your agent should not only provide you with prompt responses to your calls, but also should have a step-by-step plan regarding how he or she will keep you informed about the status of your home sale, including daily, weekly or monthly written reports on the actions that have been taken to sell your home and the resulting response from prospective buyers and other agents.

Question 29

"How would you like for me to give you feedback?"

As important as it is for your agent to keep you up to date, you should give regular feedback to your agent as to how satisfied you are with his or her service.

The best agent is one who makes it easy for you to communicate your satisfaction as well as the things you would like to see changed about the way he or she is handling your transaction.

Perhaps all you need is an explanation of why things are going the way they are or why your agent is handling things a certain way, but the more you can get all of these feelings out in the open, the better the two of you can communicate and work to change things if need be.

An organized professional will provide you with service questionnaires both at the beginning of the relationship so you can outline your expectations and at the end of the transaction so you can let him or her know how well those expectations were met, as well as regularly during the course of the sale so you can deal with any positives or negatives that occur along the way.

Sean L. Spencer, Realtor

[http://www.SeanLSpencer.com]

10 Things You Must Know Before Choosing Your Copier Vendor

Before making your final choice when choosing a copier vendor there are 10 things that you must know.

1)    Are they an authorized dealer?

Ask if they are an authorized dealer for the brand copier they are recommending to your business. Besides hearing the answer, you will need some type of proof. A certificate from the manufacturer or being listed on the manufacturer's web site are adequate proof. An authorized dealer has the advantage of having the full support of the manufacturer which includes product training, replacement parts and supplies as well as warranty support (i.e. replacing defective machines).

2)    Guarantees?

The second item you need to know is their guarantees. Most vendors have good intentions to provide good service. You need to find out what the vendor guarantees, in writing, to provide when things don't go smoothly. You are exchanging cash for the ability to produce documents. You need the assurance that you can produce those documents no matter what. Find out how the vendor guarantees to respond to service requests and what happens if there are repetitive problems with your equipment. A key point is not just finding out what the vendor intends to do, you also need to get an answer to the question "or what?". For example, you need to find out what the vendor's service response time is and then find out what the consequence is to the vendor if they don't perform.

3)    Hidden fees?

Next find out what hidden fees exist besides the cost of acquiring the copier and its operating costs (service and supplies). Hidden fees can include filing fees, insurance charges or interim rent paid to a leasing company and delivery charges for supplies. Hidden fees can add significant expense to your total cost of ownership.

4)    Who is the leasing company?

Most companies tend to lease when they acquire new copiers. You will want to find out who "funds" the vendor's leases. You need to understand the relationship between the equipment vendor and the leasing company. The closer the business relationship, the more likely it is that the vendor can help with issues that may arise with the equipment lease. Late fees, insurance charges, billing errors can be annoying and time consuming problems that can be tough to correct on your own. You want to know up-front what leverage the equipment vendor has to be able to help you.

5)    Who is the vendor owner?

The fifth thing you need to know is who owns the vendor. Is the vendor locally owned or is it a division of an international company? Depending on the structure of your business, each type of vendor can have an advantage to your business. For instance, if you are a local business and operate primarily in a single location, a local vendor may be the best choice. Although not a rule, local vendors (or dealerships) many times outshine national distributors in their ability to customize aspects of their support. On the other hand, if you operate in multiple locations, it may be easier for you to work with a vendor that can personally control the quality of service delivery for all your locations.

6)    Supply replenishment?

A sixth item to determine is how the vendor replenishes supplies used by the equipment. Toner is the most frequently replaced component and without it, your equipment will not produce the documents your company needs to operate. You'll want to find out if the vendor has systems in place to keep you stocked at all times with the supplies necessary to operate your equipment. It's recommended to have your own backup plan but you are first asking the vendor about their systems that will prevent disaster on your end.  You also want to ask about a worst case scenario when you do run out of toner. What systems do they have in place to get you back up and running again quickly?

7)    Meter readings?

Although not critical to your equipment operating, a seventh item you want to find out about is how the vendor collects usage information or meter readings. Most vendors charge for service on a usage basis usually stated as a cost per copy. Service can be packaged in different ways but the vendor will always want to track your usage. Find out how meter readings are collected by the vendor. Your best case is where the vendors have an automated system where the equipment communicates directly with them (and doesn't violate any of your network security policies) so as to not disturb your employees.

8)    Billing errors?

The eighth item to evaluate is who can help you with billing errors. Most often there are two entities you are dealing with. The first is the equipment vendor who is placing and supporting your copier equipment. You will receive operating cost service and included supplies) and supply (i.e. staples, paper) invoices from them. The second entity is the leasing company the vendor used to fund the copier lease. They will send lease invoices for the equipment. There are variations where the leasing company will invoice for the equipment as well as operating costs. Whatever your program type, you want to find out how many invoices you will receive and who is invoicing each component. Will you have one local point of contact that is close to the invoicing process or are there multiple contacts located far from your location. The fewer contacts you have to work with and the closer they are to the process, the faster and easier you will be able to resolve billing errors.

9)    The "lemon".

In the 23 years that I was an equipment salesperson as well as a dealer principal, I never saw any equipment labeled as a "lemon" when it was delivered to our dock. Although not a frequent occurrence, some of the equipment unboxed as brand new had demons that showed themselves fairly quickly after installation. The ninth item that you want to find out about is the process the vendor uses to resolve equipment reliability issues. Ask who is involved and how long each step described takes. Your best case is the fewest people involved and a short time line. Keep in mind you need to find out how the vendor handles replacing a machine that is within 90 days of installation as well as equipment that has been in use longer. These 2 categories are usually handled differently.

10) What do you want to change?

Unless you are a start-up business, you probably are currently using a copier and have a current vendor. During your relationship there are issues that have likely surfaced.  The tenth item you need to find out before choosing your copier vendor is can the vendor(s) you are considering  serve you in a way that eliminates or minimizes the issues that you are currently experiencing. Pretending you have a magic wand, describe on paper the perfect equipment vendor. Have your wish list close at hand when discussing how you want to work with a potential (or current) vendor. Have the vendor put in writing your expectations and how they will deliver them. Remember item 2 above and make sure get an answer to the question "or what?" for each area of concern. Promises or guarantees without "teeth" will not deliver the support you are seeking.

Researching these ten questions will help you choose the best vendor for your business. 

If you have any questions, you can e-mail them to help@bottomlineadv.com

David Cantliffe is the President and Founder of BottomLine Advantage LLC located in Superior, Colorado. BottomLine Advantage is a performance-based, client advocacy consulting group that specializes in reducing hard dollar costs for copy, print, and fax expenses, as well as facilities management agreements while simultaneously enhancing vendor service support levels.

David's experience spans over 18 years as a sales representative within the copier industry combined with 5 years experience as a dealership principal. You can download free articles and templates containing additional cost reduction ideas at http://www.bottomlineadv.com inside the resources tab, send an e-mail with questions or contact David at 888.400.3600.

© Copyright ? David Cantliffe. All Rights Reserved Worldwide

Ten Things You Need To Know Before Hiring A Remodeling Contractor

1)Are you licensed? Make sure your contractor is properly licensed. In the State of Delaware, all contractors MUST be either certified by the State (if they have a statewide license), or registered with the State (if they have a countywide license). Anyone can say they are licensed. Make the contractor prove it by either showing you the license or giving you a copy of it. Remember to check the expiration date, and the county if It's a countywide license. Being licensed is the law. If a contractor cannot produce a valid license, DON'T HIRE HIM!

If you live in a townhouse, villa, or high rise condominium building with four or more

units, only a Building Contractor or General Contractor are permitted to perform remodeling work. Do not hire a Residential Contractor; he would be operating outside of his license. Furthermore, hire a specialty contractor (trim, carpentry, drywall, glazing, aluminum, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, roofing, etc.) to do only the type of work the license specifies.

If you have any questions or doubts, call the Delaware Department of Business and Professional Regulation, or the New Castle County Construction Industry licensing board.

2. Do you carry general liability insurance? Make sure your contractor carries general liability insurance. This type of insurance protects your property in case of damage caused by the contractor and/or his employees. The insurance company will pay for the cost of replacing and/or repairing any damage that occurs.

Anyone can say they are insured. Make the contractor prove it by having their insurance company FAX or mail to you a certified copy of his insurance with you named as the certificate holder.

3. Will you provide me with a written lien waiver? Your contractor should provide you with a written lien waiver at the end of the job. This is a legal document, which says you the homeowner have paid the contractor in full for the services rendered and the contractor waives his right to place a mechanic's lien on your property. If during the course of construction you receive any Notice to Owner documents from material suppliers or sub-contractors, it would be prudent to ask the contractor for a Final Release of Lien from each one prior to paying the contractor his final draw. This protects you in case the contractor doesn't pay his material suppliers or sub¬contractors after you have paid him in full.

4. Are you a member of NARI or NAHB? NARI stands for the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and NAHB stands for the National Association of Home Builders. It's always a good idea to consider hiring a NARI or NAHB contractor. In most cases, both organizations only attract conscientious contractors interested in bettering the industry and in weeding out unprofessional contractors. In order to become a member, the contractor's background and references are thoroughly investigated.

5. Will you pull all the required building permits? Make sure your contractor pulls all required permits. This is very important. When a contractor pulls the required building permits, you know things will be done to "code'. Also, many homeowner's insurance policies require pulling a permit on any major remodeling to keep your home properly covered. Not all contractors will do this. Many prefer not to pull permits because of the time involved and the "hassle" with the inspectors. Some contractors may ask you to get the permits. This could be a warning sign that they are not able to pull the permit because they are unlicensed, or the work is outside of their license. A reputable contractor will permit every job where a permit is required.

6. Do you guarantee your work? Your contractor should guarantee his work for at least one year from date of completion.

7. Who will be In charge of the Job? Make sure the contractor or his foreman is on the job whenever work is being performed, - especially if sub-contractors will be used. The

responsible party must be intimately familiar with every aspect of your project. If you won't be home during the construction and must leave the house unlocked, or leave a key with the contractor, you must feel comfortable. You can't be worried about what is going on when you are not there.

8. Will you provide me with written references? A good contractor will be happy to provide you with references. You should look for a well-established contractor who can

give you several client references from the last 6 months to one year. Ask for the name of the contractor's accountant or banker. You want to ensure the contractor is financially

sound and won't be declaring bankruptcy in the middle of your project.

9. What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business? When a significant source of a contractor's business is derived from repeat and referral business, it usually indicates that his clients are pleased with the work they have received.

10. How many projects like mine have you completed in the last year? Your contractor should have experience in the type of remodeling project you want done -- not just "contracting experience"

Roland Ridgeway is owner of Tri-State Remodeling, a delware remodeling contractor that specializes in replacement windows, roofing, vinyl siding, and gutter protection systems for homeowners in Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Roland is also the author of "9 Things You Must Know Before Hiring a Window or Siding Contractor"

a free consumer guide that can be requested at http://www.tri-stateremodeling.com/remodeling_tips/consumer_guide.html

Check Your Insurance Coverage Before The Next Storm Hits

Severe weather events are increasing. In North America, nearly twice as many hurricanes form each year compared to a century ago, and thunderstorms spawning tornadoes have produced record destruction. While the actual causes of this climate trend are still being debated, some storm victims are finding that their insurance policies do not cover every type of damage.

Many people make emergency preparations for flooding, but mistakenly assume that their homeowner's coverage will repair any loss that may follow. Unfortunately, over 75% of all buildings in high-risk areas are not protected against high water, and even a few inches covering a floor can cause thousands of dollars for repair or replacement.

To bridge this gap, the American National Flood Insurance Program was created. In conjunction with local providers, this program is designed to be an alternative to actual disaster assistance, and to simplify the repair process afterward. The program not only provides residential protection, but is also involved in local efforts to manage local floodplain runoff, as well as raising local construction standards.

By the time a flood occurs, however, buying a policy is too late. There is a thirty day interval required by the government between the time federal flood coverage is purchased, and the time it will begin to take effect. Some opt for a non-government sponsored flood plan, but for full protection it must cover 100% of the replacement cost of your home and its contents.

Your automobile policies should also be examined. When a massive tree limb crushes the roof of a car, the last thing anyone wants to hear about is a coverage gap. Storm damage is part of the comprehensive clause of an auto insurance Maryland policy, for example, and also encompasses other risks such as fire and falling objects, explosions and earthquakes, and theft.

Never assume that comprehensive coverage is included. It is optional, but may be required for new autos financed through a bank loan. Customers must also choose a deductible amount which must be paid before any repairs can be approved. Policies with higher out-of-pocket costs are lower priced overall, and the choice of deductible amounts depends largely on personal finances.

Nothing can stop a storm from wreaking havoc, but knowing the details of your own policies cuts down on worry. Bundling them reduces costs, and makes contacting an agent easier. Wait for an adjuster to visit before beginning any permanent repairs, and be extremely cautious when hiring a contractor in the wake of a disaster.

You can find more information about auto insurance Maryland requirements and tips on how to get the right MD insurance coverage, now.

How Long Do You Honestly Believe it Will Be Before the US and China Go to War?

Currently, the United States is the only world superpower. However, it is believed that before 2050 China will also reach superpower status. Even if China cannot produce 10% year-over-year growth from now until then, if they can cruise along at 5 to 8% growth and until then, the nation should be able to meet that potential goal. China does not need to surpass the United States in GDP to become the next global superpower, as it has already passed all but the two other top nations.

Soon China will have a greater GDP than both Germany, and Japan. Then there will be a large gap and eventually China will surpass the United States in their gross domestic product. Right now, every time the United States makes an enemy in the world because another nation is unethical, violating human rights, or using underhanded methods to seize private enterprise, China goes in and makes a friend. They've done this in Africa, Central America and in the Middle East.

China will do anything, or go anywhere on the globe to get the raw materials, resources, and the oil it needs to continue to grow its economy. Right now, China's growth has been due mostly because the United States middle class has been buying all of their products. They are also looking to European markets to sell them the same amount of their exported products.

The European Union and the United States of America have a similar GDP. If China can get into the EU and sell the same number of products they will be able to double their exported goods over the next 10 years. Unfortunately, there are many conflicts in the world, and we have some trade war issues going on as China violates World Trade Organization rules, one after another. They will also do business with illegitimate and corrupt regimes, unlike the United States.

Previously, the United States would take someone off their trading partner list if they were doing unethical things in the world. Now, the United States can't do that as if they do, China will come in and trade with them. This means enforcement of WTO rules, human rights issues, and other problems in the world cannot be solved through free trade. It's a huge humanitarian crisis.

We have a serious problem going on in the world, and that problem is China. It's time that we address these issues, and realize if there is political impasse in the future as China grows stronger there will be wars over resources. It's a very ugly and unfortunate challenge that lies ahead. I ask that you please consider this, and understand as the future approaches.

Not long ago, I mentioned this to Guang Wu, the author of a new book; "China: Has the Last Opportunity Passed by!?" and he addresses all sorts of challenges for the future of China in his research.

Lance Winslow - Lance Winslow's Bio. Lance Winslow says we cannot run from these problems or go hide in some Custom Closets

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