California Contract Law Protects Immigrants

Immigrants who do not speak English often negotiate a used car sale in their own language. But they then cannot read the contracts they sign because the agreements are in English. It is illegal if the terms of the written contract are not what was agreed upon verbally, according to Laurel Pallock, a consumer protection investigator with the San Francisco District Attorney's Office. California law, for 30 years, has required that negotiations conducted in Spanish be finalized with a written contract in the same language. And just a year ago, the law was amended to also cover Korean, Vietnamese, Tagalog and Chinese.

The law covers contracts for new and used car purchases and leases, apartment rentals, legal services fee agreements, retail installment plans (for televisions, refrigerators, etc.), and unsecured consumer bank loans. If you find a seller in violation of the law, please report it to your local district attorney's office.

Be Your Own Driveway Detective

I was on my hands and knees the other day, investigating a puddle of water underneath my car. That's being a driveway detective, according to Larry Hecker, President of the non-profit Motorist Assurance Program. Mr. Hecker says most people only pay attention to their gas gauges, and don't bother to notice noises or monitor tire pressure and dripping fluids.

The water under my car was nothing more than condensation from the air conditioner. But watch for other fluids that are colored, oily and often thick. Leaking coolant is usually green, yellow or orange. Transmission fluid is red or pink. Windshield washer fluid is always blue, and dripping motor oil is usually dark or black, and dirty. Too many drips of any color mean that you need to take the car to your mechanic. Meanwhile, clean off the driveway with an abrasive cleanser like Comet. Sprinkle it on, let it set, and hose it off.

Fluorescent Lights Have Come a Long Way, Baby!

When was the last time you shopped for fluorescent lighting?  Years ago, people were nervous about fluorescent light bulbs because the flickering bothered the eyes. The light given off was cold and pale, not flattering. Now, new technology has eliminated earlier problems. New and improved fluorescent lighting emits warmer color and doesn’t flicker anymore.

Because they’re energy efficient, state building codes now require that some fluorescent lights be used in all kitchens and bathrooms in newly constructed homes. These light bulbs are three times brighter than incandescent bulbs and much more energy efficient.  Regular bulbs will last about 750 hours, while a fluorescent bulb lasts 10,000 hours. You can buy fluorescent bulbs in other colors now besides white. Also dimming ballasts are now available, which is a great feature, especially for kitchens.

Spiffing Up Your Car's Exhaust System

Do you want your sports car or truck to have that deep throaty growl when you take off at an intersection? Vroom, vroom, vroom!  It’s easy enough to do by having an exhaust system installed that lets the exhaust from the engine flow more freely out the tailpipes.  This type of upgrade will make your engine sound a lot more powerful and even improve gas mileage.

Two popular systems, which can be installed for less than $400, are Magnaflow and Flow Master. The muffler is changed and dual tailpipes with special tips are added. Some of the tips even have patterns on them. The louder exhaust systems do comply with California law, but be aware that you can be ticketed for driving around with a muffler, which you have modified yourself, that makes too much noise.

Designing Your Own Engagement Ring

Custom designing your wedding rings is not as difficult as many people think, according to Jay Cresalia, graduate gemologist and President of Cresalia Jewelers, a Diamond Certified company. You begin by looking around at jewelry stores and pictures in magazines, and talking to friends to get ideas for your creation.

Mr. Cresalia says a good designer will ask you about the thickness and weight of the ring, what is comfortable on your finger, and what type of settings and stones you like. The designer should build on and clarify what you say and then create a sketch, wax model, or the actual ring. Metals are pliable so minor adjustments are easy to make. Get a clear understanding up-front on the metals to be used, completion date, guarantees and the final price. Be sure to sure to ask if an appraisal is included because it's a good idea to have one for insurance purposes.

Expert Advice on Sizing Up Used Cars

When shopping for a used car, most of us know to look for low mileage vehicles, and to watch out for things such as obvious body damage and low tread tires. But how do automotive experts evaluate an older vehicle?  Besides reviewing the service records, You should get a report from CARFAX for $24.99, which will show the title history, and whether the car’s been in a major accident, has a salvage certificate or been returned for being a manufacturer buyback or “lemon.”  The report also includes information on recalls.

It’s best to avoid used cars with mismatched tires, scuffed leather interiors and pet smells.  Other red flags are signs of rust, poor paint and body repairs, and pervasive cigarette odor. Any type of smoke permeates the carpeting, headliner and venting system and is about impossible to eliminate.

What to Expect With Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

So you like the layout of your kitchen, for the most part, and you don't want to spend your entire remodeling budget on just one room. Then consider refacing your kitchen, according to Carmen Gage of KitchenWorks, a Diamond Certified company. "Cabinet refacing is not cabinet refurbishing, staining, or refinishing. You'll see a dramatic change in your kitchen when the old cabinet doors and drawer fronts are removed, the cabinet surfaces are renewed, and your custom crafted doors, drawer fronts, and new hardware are installed."

In a mini-remodel, a designer can help you make your selections and find materials compatible with the style of your home. You can add new countertops, an island or pantry, new appliances, or even have additional cabinets built for extra storage space you need. What's unique about cabinet refacing is that the job is done quickly, usually in one to two weeks, depending on what amenities you add to your new kitchen. The other good news is that updating your kitchen this way will cost you about half as much as a complete kitchen remodel and will increase the value of your home.

Comparison Shopping for Custom Cabinets and Closets

When you make a substantial investment in custom cabinets or closets, it’s important to get several bids, but it can be tricky. Customers trying to comparison shop may not realize that in order to do an apples-to-apples comparison, they need to ask the right questions.

 Customers often forget to request a detailed breakout of the items selected, such as type of drawer slides (full-extension, over-travel, and 3/4 extension), interior material (melamine or plywood), or door hinges (multi-way adjustable or clip-on). These options can sometimes make-up more than 20% of the bid and could mean the difference between using high quality components and someone who is cutting corners. Spend the time to understand the material and accessories being provided in order to make a fair assessment of the estimates and not just go with the lowest bid.

Boost Your Home's Selling Price

Most homeowners want their homes to sell quickly for the highest price possible. To accomplish that, Jane Brown, owner of Diamond Certified's Optimum Realty, a full-service real estate firm, strongly recommends that sellers consider staging their homes before posting a "for sale" sign. Staged homes stand out from the others, and evoke an emotional response from prospective buyers.

New home developers originally introduced staging by fully furnishing their models. The concept is now applied to existing homes. Once you remove your clutter and furnishings, the walls get a fresh coat of neutral colored paint. Then an experienced interior designer creates a motif with temporary furniture and just the right accessories. The idea is to maximize the use of space and create immediate curb appeal. According to Ms. Brown, this approach works well on almost any property and in her experience, results in an increased selling price of somewhere between $20,000 and $40,000.

Scientific Tree Care is a Sound Investment

Trees can add significant value to your property. By taking an informed approach to caring for your trees, you can minimize problems before they occur. According to Jonathan LoGiudice, a Certified Arborist for Bartlett Tree Experts, a Diamond Certified company, "A scientifically trained arborist is better able to identify tree problems and help prevent them.
Problems include tree failure, damage from storms and decline from insects and diseases. Arborists are also trained to help improve tree health and aesthetics." The arborist should also be receiving continuing education to stay current with the latest research and training in the field.

"With a sound scientific approach, your trees can be converted from a liability to an asset", says Mr. LoGiudice. Scientific care is proactive and helps protect your trees long term. Therefore, when deciding how to care for your trees, consider the knowledge, experience, training and scientific background of the arborist examining your trees.

Low Voltage Lighting's Many Benefits

Low-voltage halogen lighting does a great job of saving energy and providing good quality light. On top of that, the fixtures are fun and stylish. Halogen lighting is of such high quality and shows colors so well that many art galleries and jewelry stores are now using it.

The best news is that you do not need to make any changes in your electrical system at home in order to convert to halogen lighting. No special wiring is required. The fixtures themselves are designed to handle the lower voltage and provide a steady light over the life of the bulb, unlike an incandescent bulb, which steadily becomes dimmer. Another benefit is that you can adjust halogen lights with a dimmer switch and you won’t get that awful buzzing sound!

Mosquitoes - A Threat to Your Pet

This year's abundant winter rains are expected to increase the mosquito habitat, bringing two threats to your pet's health. Local veterinarians like Dr. George Walters, DVM, from Northbay Animal Hospital, a Diamond Certified organization, are warning pet owners that both West Nile virus and Heartworm disease are spread by mosquito bites. Heartworm disease infects dogs, cats, and other small animals, while West Nile only infects horses and humans.

Dr. Walters says Heartworm disease is much less of a risk for dogs and cats taking a monthly treatment such as Heartguard. Infected dogs can be treated, but no safe treatment has been developed for cats. Dogs can pass the infection to other dogs, cats, and even humans by mosquitoes. Eight-five percent of dogs rescued from Hurricane Katrina areas and brought here tested positive; they could be spreading the disease. Watch for symptoms which mimic a heart condition, such as coughing, weakness, and/or shortness of breath.

What You Didn't Know About "Test Only" Smog Centers

“Test only” shops are not only for those vehicles pre-selected by the Department of Motor Vehicles.  Anyone can get a smog check at one of these places. The test will be a little more expensive; some people prefer “test only” facilities because the service is completed in just 15 to 20 minutes.  The price is not set by law, so shop around before choosing a test center.

Cars more than 10 years old and/or high mileage vehicles are randomly selected for “test only” smog checks because they have a high emissions profile. However,  the DMV also selects 2% of all vehicles for such testing, so even a new car could be referred to a “test only” facility.  Smog checks are not required for any car made in 1975 or earlier.

Who's Really Going to Do the Work?

This is one of the most important questions to ask when you’re shopping for a contractor, plumber or skilled technician. Many customers forget to inquire when pricing a job whether work will be done by a licensed and trained expert, or whether it will be subbed out to a less skilled employee who is nominally supervised. This alone may account for price differences between bids. Having someone with more skill can often make a big difference in the quality of the job.

When collecting bids, make sure you understand what the bid includes. You should always ask whether such things as freight, labor, measurements, and a service contract are included. You might be surprised to find out what kinds of extra charges show up on the final bill.

Time to Chuck Your Old Hearing Aid?

Does your current hearing aid sound like your head is in a bucket? Does the sound of your own voice make you feel like you are shouting when you talk? Is it hard to carry on a conversation when you are chewing? These are common complaints from people with traditional hearing aids according to Diamond Certified hearing specialists. Most of these problems can be eliminated by digital hearing aids with "OPEN EAR" technology.

This new technology allows the audiologist to use your natural hearing in combination with an "OPEN" ear canal fitting that channels the sound you need to hear, not what you do not want to hear. Patients can be very satisfied with these high quality devices as it is easier to adjust to new hearing aids that provide natural hearing.

Use Better Manners to Get Better Service

One of my best strategies for getting excellent customer service is nothing mysterious. By simply using good manners and kindness when I deal with service people, I consistently get superb results. When I call my doctor's office for example, I ask for the receptionist's name and ask how her day is going. Recently I gave the office nurse a Starbucks gift card for her exceptional service. Now you're no longer a stranger, so when you beg for a last minute appointment, they find a way to squeeze you in.

And how about offering the plumber, painter, carpet cleaner or gardener a cup of coffee, a glass of water or a soft drink? Who doesn't appreciate a kind word at the end of a long day? Why not thank someone for the hard work or extra effort? Staff will be competing with each other to come to your house the next time you call for service!

Big Fuel Savings With Diesel Cars

Now that fuel prices are rising meteorically, people who would have never before thought of buying a diesel engine car are reconsidering. The newer turbo-diesels made beginning in 2004 are cleaner than older ones, and these later model cars can run on BioDiesel with no alterations, according to Dave Sutch, owner of My Car Guy, a Diamond Certified company.

You can't buy new diesel cars in California; they can only be registered once they have 7500 miles on the odometer. The engines are powerful and they don't need tune-ups or smog tests, only oil and filter changes. Diesels also last a long time. Mr. Sutch estimates that if you're doing primarily city driving, the engine will last about 400,000 miles - more if highway driving. The cost of diesel is now about the same as regular gas or mid-grade, but the real savings come from getting at least 40 miles to the gallon, depending on model and driving habits.

Buying Diamonds on the Internet?

In the past few years, more people are purchasing diamond rings over the Internet. On occasion, consumers may save a few dollars, especially sales tax, when dealing with out of state companies. But are they getting all that they bargained for?

What you miss when buying a diamond from a website is the chance to compare the beauty and brilliance of the gems. Up to 80% of a diamonds characteristics can be quantified by the information provided by a certificate like those provided by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).  The other vital 20% of the evaluation must be done based on the aesthetic appearance of the diamond. How does a diamond shine in comparison to another? No certificate can replace the valuable information provided by the human eye. 

Removing Pet Urine Stains from Hardwood?

To prevent pet urine stains on hardwood floors, the key is to catch the problem when the urine is still fresh. Use paper towels or cloth to dry the area. Then apply white vinegar and wash the area thoroughly a couple of times. Wash again with warm water and soap. Don't flood the floors; you don't want them to cup. Dry thoroughly. You should pay extra attention to cat urine because the odor is more harsh and cats will return to the same area to urinate if the scent remains.

If the urine has penetrated into the floor and turned it dark, there are two possible solutions.  One, the area may be sanded down to bare wood, re-stained and refinished.  Two, if the boards turn very dark, or even buckle, the boards will have to replaced and professionally sanded and refinished.

Correct Alignment Saves Tires and Gas?

It’s time to get your alignment checked if you have noticed unusual tire wear, a shake in the steering wheel while driving, or the sensation that your car is pulling to the right or left.  A professional wheel alignment will most likely solve these problems and at the same time, extend the life of your tires and improve fuel economy.

Protecting Natural Stone at Home?

Natural stone continues to be a popular choice for countertops, islands, vanities and floors. Knowing how to protect and properly care for these surfaces can help you preserve your investment. Because natural stone is porous, it requires a protective sealer and special care to prevent stains and scratches. Paul Beaton of Cleaner One, a Diamond Certified company, recommends sealing stone surfaces and regularly maintaining them with a neutral pH balanced cleaner (formulated for stone's unique mineral composition). Avoid general cleaners, such as vinegar, bleach, Comet® or ammonia; these cleaners can break down the sealer, etch away polish, discolor and scratch the surface.

Mr. Beaton also suggests using coasters under glasses, especially for alcoholic drinks or citrus juices. He further recommends placing trivets or mats under hot dishes and cookware, blotting up spills immediately to minimize permanent damage, and placing a small area rug at entryways to trap dirt and sand from normal foot traffic.

Your Refrigerator May Need a Steam Bath!?

You may think you're cleaning your refrigerator by simply putting an extra box of baking soda on the shelf, but eliminating odors is the easy part of the job. Stanley Costa, President of SonoMarin Cleaning Services, Inc., a Diamond Certified company, says a thorough cleaning must eliminate spoiled foods and include a top to bottom hand washing with steam and sometimes a mild detergent. Never clean the inside with products such as ammonia, Windex, 409 or bleach. The chemicals will soak into your food, especially protein-based foods and veggies, in an enclosed environment, so avoid them.

Outside refrigerator surfaces can be wiped down with a damp cloth and use a de-greasing product for fingerprints around the handle. The new stainless steel fridges with brushed finishes can be especially challenging to clean. They require a specially formulated stainless steel cleaner. Then use a cloth to wipe with the grain, rather than against it.