Smart Home Decorating: Things that Make Your Home Interiors Look Cheap

“Your home should tell the story of who you are, and be a collection of what you love”-Nate Berkus

One of the excellent ways to home our creativity is to decorate the interiors of our homes.

The possibilities of expressing ourselves are practically endless and the ways you can create a home fit to your liking are limitless. In this regard, home decorating can be seen as an avenue to convey our artistic thoughts and transform them into expressions in furniture placement and décor application. However, most homeowners are under the misconception that decorating their homes is an expensive endeavor. Consequently, they would then cut corners in a misguided attempt to mitigate home decorating costs and still end up with a home that is passably beautiful at the very least. Unfortunately, while you might be saving yourself some serious cash in cutting corners, you are also inadvertently compromising the overall aesthetic quality of your homes. The result of a home that is cheaply decorated (and with too many corners cut) would be anything but beautiful.

Keep in mind that interior decorating does not always have to be expensive. And the best part of all this is that a cheap-looking home is not actually synonymous to a cheaply decorated home. There is a myriad of ways you can decorate your home for cheap and end up with an elegantly sophisticated result without breaking the bank—you just need to be extra careful about what you buy and how to apply it. Remember, regardless of what your decorating budget might be your main goal should always to improve your home’s interiors and beauty. More importantly, you should endeavor to create an aesthetically inviting and pleasing space that would beckon you inside. Create a space that makes you anticipate coming home instead of dread it. So, whether you are decorating your condominiumin Ortigas Center or elsewhere, here are some of the things you might want to avoid applying in your interiors if you do not want your homes to look cheap:

Mass produced art

One of the integral elements of a well-decorated home is art--more importantly, a homeowner’s particular taste in art. Unfortunately, a collection mass-produced art that often comes cheap do not emulate the same effect as artworks that are uniquely curated and chosen. Even worse, it can greatly cheapen the interiors of your home as well. An original piece of artwork can do wonders even in a simply decorated room when appropriately applied. However, if you are unable to afford original artworks and paintings, look around in websites such as Etsy which would make it possible for you to afford original and unique art at any budget. Alternatively, if you have a keen eye for decorating and would like to attempt the DIY route, you can even choose to do your own original artwork. This novel idea would then inject a bit of originality into your homes and make it look even more beautiful.

Overstuffed Entryway

The minimalist approach is the way to go. Keep your entryways tidy and devoid of too much stuff as it tends to create visual noise. More importantly, make sure that the objects in your entryway are organized and clean. To make this possible, you should apply as little décor and furniture as possible. Entryways should look sophisticated and polished. Remember, this gives visitors a brief impression of what the rest of the house looks like. So, in this regard, make an excellent impression by investing only in a select few pieces of functional furniture and original artwork. While you may want to keep the place beautiful, it should still be functional first and foremost.

Overdone Themes

Themes are great and they are an excellent way for providing cohesion in the décor and furniture items you buy. However, overdoing them is another thing. You might have wanted a nautical themed living room but trust us when we say that is going to look tacky. After all, it is not like the room is solely for the use of a thirteen year old. In this regard, it might be best to replace decorating themes with decorating styles which is an entirely different space. One of the fastest ways you can cheapen any space is to have too much of one thing. Yes, you love the beach and plan on putting ocean themed accents in your living room but a little too much of it would give off the vibe of a themed motel room. Skip the theme and insert a bit of panache by opting to do styles instead.

Rug that is too small

A rug that is too small would be easily overwhelmed by other objects and furniture in the room. More importantly, it would somehow be telling of how you cannot afford an even bigger rug for which you opted with the much smaller one. Sometimes, a rug might be an extraneous décor. Sure, it can go with everything in your living room but the size seems off and would consequently make the rug feel like an afterthought. In any case, if you are committed to adding a rug, be sure to pick one that fits right under your furniture so that it does not appear as if it is just floating in the room. Be careful not to choose one that is too large as well or it would make your homes look too full.

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Home Organizing Endeavors: Five Decluttering Techniques We Can Learn from Marie Kondo

“For the longest time, I thought I needed to be more organized. Now I know I just needed less stuff”-Author Unknown

If someone told me that a show about sprucing up and organizing homes would be such a hit series, I would dismiss them as raving lunatics.

And yet here we are, craving for the next season of Netflix’s innovative, albeit unconventional series: Tidying Up with Marie Kondo. Capitalizing on her book series (and presently, TV series) Marie Kondo is a Japanese organizing consultant who shows us alternative home organizing methods that do work. The fact that the series is such a big hit amongst homeowners can give us two key takeaways: Primarily that many homeowners struggle with the general mess and clutter in their holds. Secondly, alternative methods—no matter how unconventional-- do work. While Marie Kondo already made waves with her book, she garnered international acclaim and fame through her Netflix series and sent homeowners and netizens all over the world in a cleaning frenzy and a decluttering craze.

In sum, the book’s radical cleaning method can be broken down in a two-pronged approached to tidying. First, you have to take stock of everything you own which means you have to put your hands on everything that you own. Ask yourself whether a particular item sparks joy and if it does not, thank it for its service and get rid of it. Second, when everything that has remained sparks joy then put every item in a place where it is visible, accessible and easy to grab and put back. As a result, you will then experience the nirvana of housekeeping and may never have to clean again. So, if you have any cleaning endeavors lined up for the week, you might want to take a leaf out of Marie Kondo’s book and apply it in sprucing up your homes or your ready for occupancycondo in Ortigas. Here are some of the critical takeaways of her book that you can apply in your cleaning method:

Tackle categories, not rooms

In lieu of tackling clutter by room, do it by category instead. While this technique may seem more overwhelming than simply going room to room and getting rid of the clutter, it yields better results. Kondo’s first rule is to tidy by category. Deal with every single item in a category before you proceed to the next one. Start with the least emotionally loaded household item you have: your clothes. From there, you can work your way up until such time that your homes are devoid of unwanted items.

Respect your belongings

You might have been content seeing your clothes squashed together and looking like a general heap of messiness. Kondo’s technique is to consider your household belongings’ feelings: Do they like being mashed together? Are your clothes happy that they are being crowded onto hangers or that they have seemingly no space? It might not occur to you now, but it might just be that your things are seemingly discontent with the general disarray of everything.

Do not cling onto items because you are nostalgic

Nostalgia is not your friend. Yes, some items spark fond and nostalgic memories that make you reminisce of good times, but they are rarely worth it. Focus on only one category and do not get laid by sentimental feelings by recalling the good days you had with a particular household item. You might ask yourself what the point in purging your closets is. More importantly, you might even ask yourself if you can manage with little clothes. However, do not fret. While it might seem like a significantly big and sudden change, you will manage.

Fold. Do not hang

Once you have properly sorted all of the things you wish to keep and discarded the ones you wish to get rid of, it is time to organize what is left. More often than not, our first instinct when it comes to our clothes is to hang them immediately. However, hanging every article of clothing can quickly spiral down to having closets bursting at the seams with clothes. This is because hanging clothes takes less time than deliberately and meticulously folding them. However, Kondo suggests that you fold your clothes using her special technique which would not only save you space but would actually take you less time to complete as well.

Any box will do

A rather unfortunate occurrence that happens in most cleaning endeavors is that people would seem to think that the lack of appropriate storage is a setback which can really waylay your plans. But the truth is tidying up your home does have to mean several trips to the storage store and purchasing more storage items. Doing so would be counterintuitive and would only add to the clutter. Do not get hung up about the lack of storage space as practically any box will do. Marie Kondo even uses a shoebox to organize bedroom and bathroom items. Take note: If you need more storage items, you might have an unreasonable amount of clutter left behind.  

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The Big Sell: Avoid the Pitfalls of Real Estate Selling

Like other careers, being a realtor comes with a list of responsibilities to clients and the property in the market. The obligations may pose as challenges, but the payoff makes it worth it. A house and lot for sale in Laguna that has a history, for instance, can open opportunities for you and serve as the big break you wish to have. For others, it can be real estate properties in Cebu which are priced beyond the typical household’s capacity. Either way, being a real estate agent can result in a rewarding career as long as you follow the guidelines for selling a house, condo or apartment complex.

If you’re at the beginning of your career, it can be challenging to identify the things you must do to close a deal successfully. The same goes for knowing the things to avoid when dealing with a client. There’s a high chance that your encounters with clients and other professionals in the industry are far from a smooth sail. Fortunately, this list provides a few pointers on how to avoid the pitfalls of real estate selling.

Here is how you can sell the property under your belt without waiting to gain experience.

Show the property’s best features 

As a realtor, you should be on your clients’ side while leaning a bit towards the property. It is important that you remain objective and serve the client as much as possible. But if you are assigned to sell a particular property, you should also be bent on offering it to house hunters. You should always highlight the house or unit’s best features, so people take an interest in it. 

Showing the property’s best features might pose a challenge especially if it’s a fixer-upper. The key is to look into the trends in real estate. Knowing your clients’ wants and needs also help in finding the features that would help you sell the property without a hitch. Before offering the property, you must first look into a clients’ background and assess if what the look for in a property is present in what you are trying to offer them. If it is, then you should point them out during the visit. If not, you should highlight the structure and other aspects of the home that can make potential homeowners reconsider it.

Use natural light and other types of home lighting 

Sufficient lighting indoors is a game changer. When you have enough light in a room, the property transforms into a warm and cozy space ideal for growing roots and raising a family. It helps house hunters and property buyers to see the potential of the house, apartment or condo you offer to them. Therefore, you must ensure that the property for sale has access to natural light and have working bulbs installed.

The first thing you should do is to have a room-by-room audit. Open the windows, push away the curtains and blinds while all of the lights are on. Look at each room through a buyer’s perspective. Taking photos of each room helps you see objectively. You should also do this at different times of the day—in the afternoon and night. It’ll help you address light issues such as dimming bulbs, shadows, and energy efficiency. The light audit also applies outdoors. Don’t forget to check them after you finish inside the property’s structure.

Wait for the right time

Like other things in life, there’s a right time for buying and selling real estate properties. Do not rush to find a buyer. If you do have a buyer, you should not pressure him or her to reach a decision overnight. Most buyers like to think about their choices before having a final decision. In that case, it is much better if you busy yourself with other clients. It prevents you from pressuring potential buyers and offering the property less than its original price.

Part of timing is having a buyer who can afford the price you offer. You might have clients willing to buy the property on the spot, but they won’t take it with the amount you set. Sometimes, the change in price isn’t under the influence by the buyer. It can also be from the ongoing market conditions. The supply might be higher than the demand which pushes you to slash the property’s price. Always consider these things before prioritizing the property in your sell list.

Cooperate and retain your professional stance

Real estate selling is a service. As a realtor, you assist people in finding the right home or office space. These people are placing their faith and trust in you to match them with a property fit for their needs and personality. It’s only right you provide the service they need. Thus, you should always remain truthful and hands-on with all your transactions. As much as possible, you must dispense the information you know about the property to clients.

Being a real estate agent also means you must remain professional during real estate transactions and negotiations. When you are calm and relaxed, you can quickly deal with all kinds of people. Whether they are crass, loud or fussy, you can be useful and seal the deal when you choose to be objective and level-headed. Choose your battles wisely and be alert when facing money matters. It can help you in the long run and make you the best realtor out there. Most of all, it becomes a smooth sail to sell properties.

The pitfalls of real estate selling often come from a lot of factors. However, most of them are with your influence and control. It means you can determine if you are successful in an endeavor when you think of how you can improve your skills and change your tactics.

These tips can serve as a hack for selling properties. You can also use them as a guide to improving your selling skills as a realtor. Whatever purpose these may serve, the tips are-without a doubt-a huge help in advancing your career.

Note: This article was first published on April 8, 2015, as "4 Things Home Seller Must Avoid." It was updated to serve as a guide to all realtors and professionals in the real estate industry.

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Real Estate Scams Everyone Must Know

No one relishes in being deceived by a trusted realtor or partner in growing your real estate Cebu investments. Though every scam story points to the scammer, it is also essential to note that each has participation. The scam can be a result of negligence from the buyer, seller or agent. Either way, no one looks forward to the event.

There are several factors involved in executing the crime - the property, documents, lenders, sellers, buyers, agents, and third-party entities. All of these can perform the violations or be an accomplice. Hence, it's best to be aware of the real estate scams in the Philippines. Below are the crimes rampant in the industry and how they operate.

Abrupt Change in Lender

The property owner receives an official notice regarding the transfer of load to a different lender. Besides the change in the lender, the letter will also inform you that your remaining balance will be carried over a different account name.

If you didn't request for any changes on your loan structure or anything connected to it, it's best to disregard the letter. Moreover, you must verify instructions before accepting any of the terms.

Bogus Buying

A woman under the alias Virginia "Virgie" Manalang had gone around Manila to trick real estate agents and homeowners into giving her cash. She presents herself as a potential buyer of a property. She says she can purchase the unit or house and lot as she is married to an engineer in Australia who sends his monthly pension. To prove it, she issues a check worth hundred thousand as initial payment. However, she initiates to draft the deed of sale and handle the transactions from there. Her acts are questionable as she asks the agent or seller for cash so her lawyer can write the deed of sale. She asks additional amount to cover attorney and notarial fees. She also requests for photocopies of valid IDs and signatures which she uses to target other real estate agents and realtors. Her check is also a bouncing check and the bank account used for it belongs to a different entity.

Copycat Rentals

The person would post an online listing of his or her rental that seems harmless at first. The photos look valid as there are images of the rooms of the unit and its amenities. Fake agents use this tactic to ask renters for a deposit without meeting them in person.

Double Sale

It may be a case of an initial buyer of the property may neglect the registering and transferring the title, or a seller accepting a higher price thought a potential buyer already placed payment.

Fraudulent Schemes by Agents

Agents advertise properties that aren't for sale or currently handled by a different agent. They offer the properties at a low price to bait people. Once the client sends inquiries on the property, the agent will claim it as sold or unavailable. He or she will then offer their own listing which may have a higher price than the previous property.

Some brokers and realtors may take advantage of their skills in selling and building rapport. They may misrepresent a property and neglect to disclose the most important details. Though it is the duty of the agent to be transparent on the pros and cons of choosing the land, condo unit or house and lot, they may not comply to close a sale.

On the other hand, other agents connive to raise their commission fees. One acts as the listing agent, while the other represents the buyer. Both the seller of the property and its buyer aren't aware of the setup which distorts the value of the property. The practice violates the Code of Ethics and Responsibilities for Real Estate Service Practitioners.

Predatory Lending

Loan sharks and small time, unscrupulous financial institutions lure home buyers and house hunters to unfair and abusive loan terms. They coerce their victims through deceptive or exploitative actions to acquire a loan. Most of the time, the forced borrowers don't need, want or can't afford the mortgage.

Property Title Fraud

This type of scam involves the use of old property titles and use it to generate fake titles. The scammer provides supporting documents keep buyers from doubting the deal. Another way of doing it is by presenting a fake title over an existing an existing property regardless if it has an owner or not. People who neglect due diligence are potential victims of this scam.

Sale of Foreclosed Properties

This scam is rampant and likely to happen with Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) wanting to invest in a home in the suburbs like Vermosa. Scammers, who act as a homeowner or realtor, offer foreclosed properties to potential buyers who cannot check and inspect the property (due diligence). They forge the documents to make the transaction as real as possible. Once they close the deal and the buyers are ready to move in, they disappear. They are out of reach while buyers deal with the bank.

Unfinished Developments

Lesser known developers or names you haven't heard in the industry must be taken with a grain of salt. Scams involving unfinished developments include asking for reservation fees or amortization on a property without the advertised amenities and facilities. These add-ons can also be pending or abandoned by the developer. These developers may refuse to return the money leaving the owners empty-handed.

Part of this scam is pre-sold properties with low rated that remain unfinished until the turnover date. The developer promises a different period. They move it several times until the buyer gives up.

“Too-good-to-be-true” Real Estate Champions

Individuals advertise themselves as experts who can provide insights on the market and valuable pieces of advice. They sell themselves by conducting seminars promising quick returns and strategies. They market immediate success which is far from reality.

There are also individuals posing as real estate agents. They set up a website full of property listings copied from legitimate realtors. They trick home buyers by presenting forged documents and contact information to pay a security deposit or initial payment.


You can avoid these schemes by raising awareness and spreading them to communities. That way, other people recognize the signs and report them to authorities and institutions immediately. Moreover, you must conduct your research when inquiring in a real estate property in Cavite or any place in the South. You'll have your notes to compare with your broker which can prove their reliability on the transaction.

Note: This article was first published on May 5, 2015, as "Top 3 Real Estate Scams You Need To Avoid." It was updated to raise awareness of potential buyers and sellers of real estate properties.

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Why Rent? A List of Pros and Cons for First-Time Homebuyers

Renting a condominium unit, apartment or a house and lot may be a wise decision for others. Some people may think it's the right one for them. The answer always depends on the homebuyer. What are their needs? What are they looking for in the space? Is it crucial to be at a walking distance in their workplace? Can their salary cover monthly mortgages? There's a lot more to consider before settling on a home.

As a first time homebuyer, you must note the factors that can affect your capacity to select and purchase the property that fits your bill. Whether its a checklist of the features you look for in a home, you must consider how all of these affects your homebuying capacity. Sometimes, a condo near a serviced office Makati suits you better than a townhome in the area.

Are you still deciding if renting an apartment a good decision? You can read the pros and cons below to resolve your inner debate. The list starts with the advantages and directly followed by the opposing thought.

Renting Pros

1. Affordability

The monthly rental cost is ultimately cheaper than the mortgage payment and interest fee. Of course, the price depends on the type of property you will undertake. For instance, a high-rise condominium will be more expensive than a bungalow in a gated community. You always have the option to share the space and split the expenses if you wish to settle on properties on the high-end market.

2. Flexibility

A rental is much suited for people always on the move. House ownership won't tie them down. The typical property term is one to two years. Thus, homebuyers who aren't ready to commit can opt to rent. Once the lease expires, you can renew the contract terms or explore the housing market.

Moreover, renting won't drain your finances once the economy is in a depression. Losing your job only results in a delay of lease payments. As interest increase, the mortgage payment becomes higher which can push a homeowner to give up their property.

3. Hassle-free Maintainance

Since you do not own the rental, owner, landlord or a hired keeper will attend to damages and repairs in the area. They cover the fees for upgrading and fixing the features of the place. They ensure to maintain the quality of their property to satisfy their renters and keep their income flowing. All you have to do is save their number in case of an emergency.

4. Exclusive Amenities

If you choose to rent a condo unit, you won't have to worry about recreation. A modern complex comes with high-class facilities such as an Olympic-sized pool, patches of green for relaxation and a basketball or a volleyball court. Others have tennis courts and laundry services. They include these facilities to create a wholesome and stress-free lifestyle for homeowners.

On the other hand, a few apartments include pieces of furniture and appliances for the settlers. There's a stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and even a dryer. You can stock up on food and other essentials once you get the place. How sweet is that?

The advantages are great but there are downsides to renting a property as your home.

Rental Cons

1. Hidden Costs

The facilities in a condominium aren't free. Though you don't have to pay for maintenance and repairs in your unit, you have to contribute to the preservation of the common areas. Some property owners don't include the fees in your monthly rental, so you have to pay them yourself. It may consist of parking dues, hallway maintenance costs, or garbage collection.

On top of that, your landlord may decide to increase your rent. The increase will affect your budget. It will be difficult to cope in a few months since you also must consider utility bills.

2. Temporary Dwelling

Renting a place isn't sustainable especially if you plan to expand your family. As more people become part of your home, you need additional space for each person as well as the stuff they lug behind them. You might be better with buying and owning a townhome or a house and lot. The rental won't provide the roots to stabilize and establish the history of your family.

3. Common Areas

Asking a relative, friend, or colleague to join you in an apartment solves your financial woes. Unfortunately, it won't provide much privacy. You have to share the bedroom or bathroom especially if you are in a studio type or one bedroom condo unit. Other problems may arise especially if your roommate isn't fond of cleaning and organizing their stuff. Then, there's also the snoring problem, the noise from the TV or the music blaring from the speakers during ungodly hours.

4. Limited Parking

A condominium complex comes with parking lots, but they aren't designated to homeowners. Hence, looking for a spot may consume most of your time. On top of that, you are competing with others to grab the free space.

5. Pet Control

Some apartment rentals or units implement no-pets-allowed policy. It becomes difficult for you and your beloved furry companions to find a place to stay.

6. Fickle Landlords

You have the perfect place, but you can't stand your him or her. They complain whenever you remind them of repairs or maintenance. They are even grouchy when you hand him or her your rental fees. Some property owners are also unreliable as they can trick you into giving in to their price even when the property inputs low-quality materials. They also won't allow remodeling. They want to retain the color of their walls or the placement of specific pieces of furniture and home accessories.


There you have it! These are just some simple tips you should know for yourself even if you aren't a first-time home buyer. The pros and cons of renting will help you arrive at a decision. Hope this has been of help!

Note: The article was first published on June 30, 2014, with the title "The Pros and Cons of Renting a Place To Stay." It has been updated for relevance and comprehensiveness.

The Cold, Hard Truth Behind the 90/10 Rule of Real Estate Industry

Managing properties, gaining commissions, and meeting a bunch of clients with different needs are some of the activities of a real estate agent. The hefty paycheck is motivating factor despite running around the city during the open house of two properties. Thus, a lot of people want to work in the industry as the job seems natural.

It is at first glance. Once can become an agent as long as he or she can sell one 2br condo for rent Bonifacio Global City (BGC). If he or she influences a startup to go for a serviced office Makati CBD, then he or she does a swell job of using their marketing tactics. As the industry, more people look forward to making a profession out of it. Thus, the 90/10 rule exists.

Before the regulations existed, anyone who finished high school or passed Grade 12 can become an agent. At present, one study the curriculum and obtain a license to be a realtor. Since most don't want to give the time and effort to finish the course, only 10 percent of the total number of real estate agents are doing 90 percent of the work.

It's evident that a lot of agents fail in their profession. Below are some of the hard truths in permeating the real estate industry.

• The real estate curriculum lacks the scope of marketing and deal management. Some examples of topics that brokers must know and understand are:

1. Psychology of salesmanship
2. Art of selling and crafting deals
3. Networking
4. Creating listings
5. Presenting listings in a professional manner
6. Overcoming objections from buyers and sellers
7. Working with financial institutions
8. Dealing with appraisers and home inspectors
9. Communicating with utility companies and government agencies
10. Handling permits

Agents can learn these skills along the way, but they will become highly efficient in their tasks if they knew these things beforehand. They are likely to proceed and be motivated to pursue their individual goals if they know how to navigate the waters. Therefore, developers and real estate companies must provide mentorship, trainings, and seminars in their respective offices to minimize the agent failure and turnover rate.

• Realtors, especially beginners, undermine their abilities. Setting a timeframe for lead generation is acceptable. A 30 to 60-day real estate success may be correct for some and may not be for others. Lots of agents quit when they don't generate leads. They berate themselves and the market when they don't tick anything off their list. They leave early in the game without persevering and lose their confidence. When that happens, they become unlikely to take risks. They won't explore new strategies or try a new path yielding high returns.

• Real estate entrepreneurs neglect the power of advertising. Developers and housing realtors forget they are part of a business. A business needs investments to grow. Mixing traditional advertising and digital marketing increases the company or brand's outreach and, in turn, expands their market.

• Being greedy with opportunities destroys a realtor's career path. Real estate trades is and always was a job. Depending on the company's salary scheme, it is a reliable source of income. A lot of agents think that realty management doesn't qualify as a job, so they look for additional opportunities. Looking elsewhere places property selling on the sidelines and disrupts the focus on expanding the business.

Consulting a licensed yet non-practicing real estate agent is no different from getting surgery from licensed, non-practicing doctor. When in the game, vision becomes limited. One can only focus on what's in front. Business owners focus on income and realtors to their commissions.

No one wants to do the dirty work that's why the 90/10 rule exists.

Four Questions To Guide Your Financial Journey

A financial journey starts from the moment you receive a stable income. The salary from your first job, the earnings from your business after a year of operation, or the commissions from offering your skills and services to others are all sources of stable income. Though a majority of the adult population has a job, a lot of them still struggle with managing their money.

Starting as early as possible to manage finances will go a long way. It preps you for the future. You can establish an emergency fund, purchase a home in Cavite's Vermosa, or travel in style. Whichever are your goals, here are four questions to ponder on regarding your money matters.

1. "What do you want to do with your money this year?"

It helps to remember that money comes and goes. You can earn back what you lost. However, it's gone forever once you lose it. All you can do is double your effort to earn the same amount or more than that.

An adult with a stable job continues to earn their keep and receive their keep twice a month. The person will have a lot of cash at the end of the year assuming there are no expenses. Living with no expenses is the ideal lifestyle but far from reality.

To remain debt-free and keep your balances afloat, ask yourself what you wish to do with your money. Is there anything you want to achieve? Do you have a big ticket purchase on your sleeve? Do you want to travel? Think about the things you need, first then follow it with your wants. Identifying the activities involved in achieving your goal lets you create a picture of your path.

2. "Does shopping or purchasing a certain item relieve your feelings?"

Some people relish the high from finding a bargain. Others occasionally indulge in a few purchases to keep their stock in check or get ahold of the latest trends. If you excessively spend your time and paycheck on shopping, you need to assess yourself.

Shopping is fun, but it isn't a form of therapy. The rush of shopping is short-lived. On top of that, you can end up with debt that will take you awhile to pay up. You can also get into the habit of buying expensive things just to impress people.

When you know the reason behind your shopping trips, you will understand how to control your habits and spur our impulses. Moreover, you won't have to rely on spending to feel good about yourself.

3. "Do you spend more time outside with friends and colleagues than you do at home?"

The people with you can influence your spending habits. Going out to indulge in after-work feasts or late night adventures with friends can burn a hole in your wallet. It can also lead you to a costly lifestyle. Meanwhile, preferring to stay at home with family can minimize the incidences of unnecessary spending.

Being out most of the time also places you under pressure. You need to pay for everything to achieve the conveniences that are only available at home. Overspending and maintaining a break-even status can set you a few years from your financial journey.

4. "Are family members aware of your financial condition?"

Single people can easily manage their finances as they don't have to worry about obligations. They can quickly pay off a debt, apply for a loan, and rely on credit. As long as they put their mind to it, they can take hold of their destiny. They can ask their parents or established siblings to help the rut during the early stages of their independence.

It's a different story for married couples and those with children. If one of the pairs undertakes a debt, both sides have to adjust. The other person needs the support and encouragement of others. Their financial decisions will vary as they improve their lifestyle.

Thinking of finances can be stressful, so it's important to take care of yourself. Better financial health may push you to shift your life choices, but you must not neglect eating well, exercise, and spending time with people important to you.

A financial journey is a journey of the self. Take care of your body, so it takes care of the rest.

Housing Tenure in the Philippines

It's a must to consider housing tenure when investing in real estate. The type of tenure determines the ownership of the occupants in particular housing unit. As settlers and inhabitants of the area, it informs you the extent of your legal status and duration of stay.

Tenure can be tricky as it varies by location, existing laws and, the nature of the structure. It also depends on mortgage terms, the economic and emotional connection between the unit and the household. Currently, there are four terms of tenure in the country. Some of them may apply in other housing locations.

Hybrid housing tenures are products of changing societal norms and community structures. They are a combination of the common types and other elements that affect dues, monitoring and stewardship.

The four common types of tenure are:

1. 1. Owned or being amortized
2. Rented 
3. Free settlement with the permission of the owner
4. Free settlement without the consent of the owner

When the settlers have the right to claim the housing unit, then they own the property. They have legal claims over the occupied are regardless if they are on mortgage or amortization. A house and lot for sale in Cavite, such as those in Vermosa, are examples of homeownership acquisition.

The next type of tenure is the rental. To utilize the unit, its occupants must pay rent in cash or kind. They have temporary claims on their settlement. Their right to occupy the area depends on a contract or drafted stipulation.

On the other hand, occupants may dwell in a location without payment. As long as they have the consent of the owner of the area, they may use it as their settlement. Rent-free houses and living quarters under private ownership can are examples of this tenure.

Contrast to these free housing units is makeshift houses and slums in various communities. Squatters and households with no permanent address who take over abandoned public and private properties are part of the fourth type of tenure. These residents settle on an area without the consent of an owner.

If you are investing in real estate properties, you use housing tenure as a guide to make decisions and sound judgment. Still, it's essential to consider other housing tenures. Non-profit organizations and the public sector came up with solutions to the widespread housing problem.

The remaining tenures target lack of housing units and decreasing land areas to develop. Examples of these are community land trusts, cooperative housing, mutual housing associations and government housing.

Cooperative housing, also known as limited equity co-ops, is synonymous with community land trusts. A legal entity such as a corporation or non-profit organization oversees and manages the residential buildings and complex. They are responsible for keeping the price of the units at an affordable price.

Entities are responsible for coop housing and community trust low to medium income households. Thus, shareholders of the development have the right to settle on a unit. They are similar to homeowners in this manner.

Mutual housing associations are prevalent in condominiums. Individuals have the right to own a housing unit. In this manner, they form a community of homeowners considering their joint ownership over the communal areas.

Last but not least, there are public settlements under the initiative of government housing agencies. Relocation homes and sites are examples of these. The public sector may partner with private entities and non-stock, non-profit organizations. The accommodations are free or offered as rentals at a low price.

A lot of communities have mixed types of housing tenures due to various economic and societal factors. Several influences determine the relationship of the housing unit to its owner. It's best to research the current housing tenures in an area before settling on a home.

5 Condo Hacks To Living in Luxury

People mistaken luxury for expensive tastes. However, luxury is all about comfort and quality combined with pleasing architecture or design. An example of luxury is the expanse of Bonifacio Global City. Almost everything you need for a great urban lifestyle is within a distance of condominiums and communities.

If your condo is in the area of BGC, it's only ideal to pattern its design to the aura of the city. Here are some ways to hack your condo and enjoy the feel of the modern lifestyle.

1. Fill an empty space.

To be more specific, fill an empty wall. Start by painting a fresh coat of white on plain walls. White walls are easier to work with in terms of design. They are friendly to various colors and prints. A clear wall is also similar to a blank canvas. It allows you to install shelves, cupboards, artwork and other kinds of wall hangings.

You can make a gallery wall in the living room by using different sizes of frames for family photos and mementos. You can hang sculptures, mirrors and other pieces of art to create a salon-like arrangement for promising hallways and bare center.

2. Make use of surfaces. 

A luxurious condo caters to refined tastes and simplicity. It makes use of the less-is-more approach and avoid clutter and over accessorizing the areas of the home. To achieve a simple look, keep the items with the highest value. These items and pieces of furniture may have sentimental value or string of positive memories attached to them.

You can place small items on coffee tables, desks, and countertops. If you don’t have a lot of items to display, you make the surface of the table the center of attention. A pastel marble coffee table, a glass top dining table or a sleek matted wooden desk are enough to serve as centerpieces.

3. Prioritize the sitting area.

After the kitchen, the busiest area in the house is the living room. The TV is usually in the living room. Other than that, people come in the foyer to socialize or relax. If you plan on spending a sum of money on decorating, you better spend it on the couch.

Most of the activities in the area will involve sitting on the sofa. Hence, it pays to make it a comfortable experience. Moreover, the couch is the most prominent piece of furniture in the room. It’s best to choose a sofa made of materials that last such as linen, wool, and velvet.

4. Identify the colors you want to include in your home.

The ultimate cheat to making a luxurious casa is in the colors of the elements of design. Tasteful and well-decorated homes are color coordinated. It follows a palette or a set of colors that run throughout the indoors of the house. 

Light colors are perfect for smaller spaces such as condos and lofts. Pastel hues and soft, muted tones allow light to enter the area. It also helps it appear larger than it is. Integrating a contrasting color or a slightly darker shade enables you to create an exciting palette you can use in the different area of your home.

5. Install additional light fixtures.

Natural light can be limited because of a tree, building or structure next door. It can also be due to wrong window placement. These factors can your home appear darker due to the lack of light. Enhancing the shadows and dark areas shrinks the appearance of your home.

Fortunately, these details can be fixed. Having proper ambient and task light fixtures provides instant design while increasing the brightness of the area. Each room can have a combination of both - several lamps and an intense hanging light. 

These hacks are simple and easy to integrate. They also won't cost you a lot. Though living in a business district like BGC can be expensive, the ways to make a luxurious condo is cheap and modest.

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The Living Nightmare: Working in Sales and Retail

Halloween is over, but for some people, the horror of dealing with the unexplainable and unknown happens every day. Most people look forward to catching up on the spooky and thrilling movies on Netflix, but people dabbling in sales or retail would instead take a shot of tequila or vodka to forget the day’s horrors.

There are lots of unforgettable stories when you work with people. Some stories bring chills and raise the hairs on the back of the neck while others just have the shock factor. They make you forget to form the right words because of the extreme emotions it produces. A haunted office space for rent in Quezon City sure has more appeal than dealing with inconsiderate or rude customers daily.

Of all the industries in the world, there’s nothing crazier and more chaotic than Sales and Retail.

Customers

Some people are just insensitive and mean.

On a clothing retail store, some customers tend to try on a lot of stuff and ask about everything. Later on, they come up to say they want nothing from the pile. These customers don’t understand how difficult it was to pull out a pair of jeans under the mass of clothes. You had to twist and extend your body to reach the box of size 9 shoes only to find out they dropped the order.

On top of that, some people leave their trash in dressing rooms. All the gross stuff that shouldn’t be there all over the floor. Soiled diapers, napkins and fast food wrappers are examples of things that shouldn’t be in changing cubicles. 

Meanwhile, this happens in any store. Snoopers probe a lot of questions about the product condescendingly and tell you they are just “looking.” Then, there are “frequent shoppers.” They boss around and act like they own the place because of their loyalty to the brand or store. If they love it so much, why don’t they work there? Also, if they are loyal shoppers, they should know the company’s policy of asking for i.d. A lot of people still complain about this.

Of course, who would forget the live-fast-die-young people? These people will shop like there’s no tomorrow only to return the items by Monday. Unfortunately, some of these shoppers replace or exchange the stuff in a less-than-stellar state, which makes the job ten times harder. 

Don’t forget the teenagers. The young crowd is excellent for attracting crowds. Their high energy and unrefined tastes are great for marketing the basics - food and clothing. Sometimes, their energy gets out of hand that they are starting to bother other shoppers. Moreover, they TOUCH everything and wreak havoc in the store.

Children are cute, but once they start to open their mouth, annoying cries and loud screams come out. Toddlers who are beginning to walk or like to run around the shop are also prone to breaking stuff and cover everything with saliva.

The Crouton Lady

If you think you’re done dealing with children, there are those who act like children. Children are not into responsibilities so those the kind of shoppers who enter the store before closing time. These people don’t think that store employees and shopkeepers are human too. What’s worse, they specifically ask you for help after you’ve clocked out. The same goes when people give the exact money after you’ve entered the amount they gave you on the register.

One thing that would add to a great day is when clients and customers ask for the manager, and they won’t talk to you because you are too YOUNG to be a general manager.

Management

There are days you doubt there’s someone out there who plays tricks on you especially when you have to work on your day off. It’s only been a year since you’ve been in this job and you like you’ve gained years because of stress and exhaustion.

If you’re the middleman, you’ll eventually get tired of customers complaining about management and the quality of service they got. If they want to change something about the company or service, they should go ahead and complain to the manager. They should go ahead and do it because no one can hold their pee that long.

Careers in Real Estate: Working on Commission

1. To close off a deal, they have to establish rapport with the buyers. Moreover, they have to ensure the sellers they are representing are set on selling the property.

It doesn’t help when the owners keep changing their mind each time the economy drops a few points in three months.

2. Clients, in particular couples, will disagree on a LOT of things. 

Husbands and wives will find fault on a counter top, the front door, the ceiling, the windows… the list goes on. It’s such a relief to have them agree on a property after months of looking at showrooms and model units.

3. When they do settle on a property, it’s the one you visited a while back. It can also be the house you visited MONTHS AGO which they insisted on never getting.

Can’t they decide on their dream home sooner?

4. When they finally settle on a home, they get super excited that it becomes your job to keep them in line and act normal in front of the listing agent. Because you know, they may reject your clients.

5. Next, comes the waiting game.

The lending company won’t call you or the company back. Do they even know how long it took these buyers to make up their minds?

Then you have to wait for the listing agent for the disclosure. It may take weeks. Months even.

6. If you ask anyone the most fulfilling part of being in this job, it's getting the offer accepted.

IT’S THE BEST FEELING EVER. 

You own the world. You feel like Jack on Titanic minus the part where you die because you still have a list of stuff for worth catching up.

Finding a listing client, for example. I mean, do you know how difficult it is to convince a seller? Clients can be hard to budge. They often don't know what they're doing. More reason to seek your service so you can offer them guidance. 

7. Still, you need patience. 

You have to tell them how listing prices are determined. They don’t understand how they can be ripped off by, say, online listing companies who didn’t even see the place in person.

8. You quote, "A responsible professional like me will visit your home even on WEEKENDS. That's how much I love my job. Endless inquiries on Friday, open house on Saturday and catching up on readings on Sunday. I LIVE FOR MY JOB," end quote.

9. Even though you’ve spent all your Saturdays working your butt off, your clients still think you're upping the price for you (partly because you worked for it) but it’s more of placing the right value on the property.

Moreover, your expertise and hard work can get them to sell the house much faster. *wink*

10. After all the hard work, the client decides to cut your commissions, so you go in for the kill. The offer you usually reject? IT'S GOING TO BE THE ONE.

Once again, you’ve closed another deal. 

These are just a few of the inner workings of the people in the real estate industry. But, the industry and the people in it are so much more than that. Each person has their manner and perspective on how they handle things so they may not necessarily be in this state of mind while on their job.

These are merely depictions of how real estate agents are when working on commission. The article's purpose is to provide entertainment and insight to its readers.

The Big Sell: Experts Share Pitching Advice

Another day at UP Ayala Technohub, slaving for 8 hours. You have an idea brewing in your head. You also have a plan to improve your group’s communication system and project management style. But these powerful ideas or well-kept backup plans are just in your head, and won’t matter unless you share it with the group; most importantly, to your superior. Until then, it will just be a plan or idea that won’t be making the changes you envision for the company.

The aim is to have their approval. To hear that sweet sounding yes is a melody to the ears, which makes you fly high in the sky even if it means being buried in paperwork. Before that, you have to face your boss, the management or who ever it is you have to talk with to settle the proposal. Sometimes, it only takes one chance for the person or committees to decide your faith, so it’s better to ace it on the first try.

Few experts had a say on how to successfully present a pitch to a challenging audience. To show off your ideas without a hinge, read on to find what the experts had to say to amp your presentation.

John Rood of Next Step Test Preparation

John Rood suggests to lay out how managements should judge the project’s success quickly. What are the indicators that the project will be a success? Having a specific goal will help you set measures of success or key performance indicators (KPIs) early on. Step-wise goals or buildable goals are easier to digest than having a long-term goal. It also suggests that fewer risks are involved. Thus management is more accepting of the idea.

To reduce the risk of rejection, form alliances with those in the upper levels of the company who will approve the pitch. Test out the waters, talk with them to see what clicks and what doesn’t. It will also help you improve and expand your idea. There will be instances when they will see the details you may have overlooked. The more feedback you get for your pitch, the better you can prepare for the actual and formal meeting.

Phil Chen of Systems Watch

It’s not enough to just have the proposal ready; it’s also important to prove you can handle it. They want to see a work ethic that can sustain the onset of the project throughout its growth. You have to show redeeming qualities—agility, thoughtfulness, and efficiency.

Remember that you still have current task and projects. Phil Chen advises preparing an outline that illustrates the order of your priorities. It will show you still have the time and resources to lead a new project. The outline is especially useful if you haven’t proven your leadership potential.

Brian Honigman of BrianHonigman.com

Brian Honigman shares a piece of advice that isn’t often followed. Composing a polished plan shows the time a thought invested in it. It also shows you’ve reviewed potential problems along the way. It suggests you can take charge and lead the project which will help convince the management of the proposal.

Kenny Nguyen of Big Fish Presentations

As much enthusiasm you show when presenting the project, prepare to defend your idea when objections arise. Being able to justify your proposal is particularly useful when negotiating with investors. You should not be swayed with counter-arguments no matter how logical they may seem. Withstand the onslaught of questions and prepare a counter-attack.

Thus, when answering the management or investors’ queries, pay attention to the current inquiry only. Give a simple and straightforward answer. Avoid getting thrown off your train of thought by overthinking the panel’s questions.

Jyot Singh of RTS Labs

The benefits of the pitch should be clear - how will it add value to the company. Jyot Singh says the presentation should be directed to those benefits and the ways how it will be utilized by the audience of your presentation.

A presentation that states the advantages of the projects creates a positive mindset over the project proposal. With that, keep your winning statement simple.

Adam Stillman of SparkReel

Of course, create visual aids. Adam Stillman knows the importance of visual aids. Visuals are powerful; they help make the plan seem real and relatable. Visual aids also hold power regarding communication as the information comes much faster and lingers in the form of memory.

When creating visuals, concentrate on the essentials. If it allows you to explain the project, return on investment and growth strategy for five minutes, then you’re good to go.

These experts know what they’re talking about, and you should too. When proposing an idea to top level management, remember to account for risks. The less risk involves, the higher the chance to get their approval. A clear-cut and carefully constructed plan will cover the basics. No matter how polished the proposal is, there will be details which aren’t acceptable to the audience. Hence, prepare to defend your ideas during the presentation. It means you can handle it the pressure and sustain the project.

As a realtor, it is part of your job to present products and services to clients and top management. Therefore, knowing these tips are valuable to your career.

Let's do the Sales Talk

Selling products and services are not as easy as what others think (or you thought it would be). Not all people will be easily convinced on why they should buy from you a house and lot in Quezon City, or purchase an item of furniture for their newly acquired apartment unit. Taking into account that the field of sales is challenging yet exciting, we know that all of us have certain areas for improvement. Salespeople would often argue that the person will buy if he or she is really interested. Well, it does have a point but what if that lead can be converted into sales with just a matter of proper and effective persuasion? This is where salespeople will come into the picture and use their “magic and tricks” on selling and marketing.

If you’re willing to take the challenge, continue reading and let’s do the sales talk:

Make them need and want what you’re selling. This is easier said than done but through some practice and proper customer engagement, you’d eventually make them want to buy. Just remember that not all people are easily persuaded or convinced, and there are times where you need to have the patience of a saint. Some things you need to remember at this point are:

• Build rapport - before you go on with convincing, get to know your leads and customers first. Be aware of their background, why are they inquiring or interested and use that knowledge as a stepping stone to talk to them effectively.

• Paint them a picture - visualize with them what would and not going to happen if they will purchase your item. Let them know what your product and service can do for them.

• Highlight your brand’s advantages - if you know your market and competition, you should be able to pitch in that your brand is the best and they will save a lot. You know, people love “saving some money from buying.”

Be open and honest. Some of your clients might be opening up to you on why they are interested and why they are inquiring about this product or service. In return, you should also be open and honest about your deals and offers. Other salespeople tend to blanket some details and just tell the leads and customers the good things. Technically, they are not lying but try to put yourself in the customers’ shoes - does it feel good? We know that the answer is no. Besides, if you’d end up covering some truths and they found out that this is not what they are looking for, this problem will go back to you, and it will be a burden for you to take. Just be careful on which details are open for disclosure and not as some information are confidential.

Positive framing. You may know all the answers, but you should also know how to deliver it to your leads and customers. Similar to the previous point, you need to be open about the things your clients need to know. But to help you frame and deliver things well, here are some reminders: 

• Never say “I don’t know” - remember that you are selling them and you need to convince them. How would you be able to do that if you don’t know the particulars and information of your products, services or company? Instead of saying “I don’t know,” you can tell them “I will get back to you on that” or “I will communicate with my colleagues/ manager/ supervisor as soon as possible to clarify some points regarding that.” But know that your leads and customers will also be fed up with your excuse, so you got to know what they need as quickly as possible  

• Get that “can do” attitude - you can’t do their request? Tell them what you can offer on the other hand and say that you can do it as efficiently as what they wanted.

• Drop the “unfortunately” - this is about positive framing, so you don’t need many negative words in your sales vocabulary. If your clients are looking for something you don’t have yet, a good alternative of “Unfortunately, we don’t have that” is “As of the moment, our company is taking that into consideration (or developing that option) and on the other hand, we have the following products and services that would fulfill your needs”.