Helping First Time Buyers Understand the Loan Process

As the largest single investment most families will make in their lifetime, a mortgage loan represents a payment plan that may take decades to complete. The process for qualifying for a mortgage loan is much shorter, but it requires several steps, and it often takes days or weeks to gain final approval and sign the paperwork for purchasing the home.

Qualifying for a Mortgage

It's common to seek pre-approval for a mortgage loan before starting a house hunt because
modern real estate moves quickly once an offer is made, and a buyer must have financing
quickly available to secure the property. Before starting the official mortgage loan process,
borrowers must figure out whether loan approval seems likely. A rejected loan application
can make it difficult for a borrower to qualify for future loans.

A lender may want a borrower to apply with a down payment in hand, as well as have a
certain loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. As described by real estate website Zillow, an LTV is a
ratio determined by the assets held by the borrower compared to the amount of money
requested for the mortgage loan. In the event a borrower's LTV is unfavorable for a
mortgage loan, the lender may ask the borrower to purchase mortgage insurance to
reduce the lender's risk in issuing the loan.

General Steps in the Mortgage Approval Process

Mega-lender Bank of America suggests that borrowers must follow ten steps to secure
a home loan, but the process isn't too complicated as long as a borrower knows the
steps in advance of applying for a mortgage. The first steps include submitting an
application, arranging a home inspection, and answering any questions the lender
might have about the application.

In addition to the home inspection the borrower should arrange, the lender will also
arrange an inspection of the house to ensure the value of the home is close enough
to the mortgage loan amount. If the inspection finds major problems, the mortgage
lender might reject the application because the loan amount would greatly exceed the
actual value of the home.

During the time the bank will spend determining whether to approve the loan or reject
the application, the borrower must adhere to certain behaviors. For example, it's unwise
to take out any new credit or create new debt during the process of applying for a
mortgage loan. It's also essential that the borrower reviews any documents sent by the
bank to confirm their accuracy.

At least ten days before all final paperwork is signed, the borrower must lock in the
interest rate with the lender, so all documents created for the final meeting between
the borrower and lender contain accurate figures. The conclusion of the loan process
is called the closing, and the borrower will sign several documents and provide a
cashier's check or wire transfer to cover the down payment and any required closing
costs.

Mortgage Loans Come With Many Requirements

In addition to the mandatory payments that the borrower must make on a monthly or
twice-monthly basis, mortgage loans also tend to come with a stipulation that the
borrower buys a homeowners insurance policy. Much like a lender offering vehicle
loans will require a borrower to obtain full coverage on car insurance for the duration
of the loan, a mortgage company will ask the borrower to insure the house against
damages during the repayment process.

Speaking with a Banker Helps Avoid Mortgage Rejections

There are few guarantees in the home buying process, and it may feel heartbroken
for a family to lose out on the ideal home because of a rejected mortgage application
or tardy loan approval. Conventional wisdom has long recommended that borrowers
save a down payment of 20 percent, but that figure has been called antiquated in an
article published by The Los Angeles Times. Before the search for a home begins,
the first step in getting a mortgage is speaking with a banker at a local bank for
details on the application process and likelihood of approval.

Why Everyone Should Be Drinking Protein Shakes

It's common for bodybuilders and for those with a dedicated interest in fitness to regularly drink protein shakes. The extra protein helps them build lean muscle mass, giving them better results from their workouts. What about everyone else? In truth, there are more benefits to drinking protein shakes, so, even if you don't regularly work out, a regular protein shake may do your body some good.


Why Does Your Body Need Protein?

Everyone needs to make sure they consume enough protein rich foods, because that's what helps the different systems in the body function. Our bodies use protein to create hormones, nucleic acids, enzymes, cellular messengers, and to enhance the immune system. Protein is commonly known to help the body develop and strengthen muscle and tissue, which is why it's commonly associated with bodybuilding and weight training.
However, people tend to forget the organs of our body are also made up for muscle and tissue. For instance, protein boosts heart health and is necessary for the functioning of the cardiovascular system. It also helps muscles grow and heal from tears.

Accepting that the body needs a steady supply of protein, why not just rely on our foods to give us the supply of protein we need? The most important reason is that it takes the body longer to break down foods into usable protein. When we drink a protein shake, the protein is delivered to our bloodstream within 30 minutes, a far shorter time than the proteins we derive from foods.


What Kind of Proteins are Best?

There are various forms of protein, but what is casein protein? What is whey protein? These are common questions from people new to protein shakes.  Whey protein is the most common type of protein, because it's processed much faster by the body. Bodybuilders often drink a whey protein shake just after a workout to help maximize their results.

Casein, on the other hand, takes longer than whey to be processed, because it's richer in glutamine. Among other things, glutamine is an amino acid that promotes better digestion, healthier brain activity, and muscle growth. Since casein takes longer to digest, it's best taken in the evening. As you sleep, it can deliver essential nutrients throughout the body, so you'll wake up feeling refreshed and energized.
An alternative to casein and whey is soy protein. This product is mostly used by vegetarians and vegans, because it's not derived from animal products. Soy protein shakes contain all of the amino acids that the body needs, which explains why it has become the preferred alternative.


More Reasons to Drink Protein Shakes

Even if you're not trying to bulk up, there are advantages to drinking regular protein shakes. Some people choose to use them as a weight loss tool, because they can reduce hunger and leave you feeling full for longer. In one Australian study, it was found that whey protein resulted in lower ghrelin levels, the hormone that tells your brain that you're hungry.

There's some anecdotal evidence to suggest that whey protein also fights cancer. While it's important to get screened regularly and to follow your doctor's instructions, adding whey protein shakes may reduce your risk of developing colon and prostate cancer.
Protein shakes can also help you manage stress. In recent studies, it was found that protein shakes reduced the signs of depression and elevated moods in 58 test subjects. Researchers concluded that the extra protein boosts serotonin levels in the brain, reducing stress and anxiety.

There's also evidence, supported by a University of Alberta study, that protein shakes can help improve immunity. Male test subjects were asked to engage in intensive aerobic activity, which resulted in lowering their glutathione levels. Glutathione deficiencies can weaken the immune system exposing the gastrointestinal and nervous systems to inflammation and infection. When the subjects were given protein shakes to supplement their diets, glutathione levels didn't drop as much as they had been without the supplements.


Protein shakes can provide obvious benefits, where you're hoping to build more lean muscle mass or not. It can help reduce weight and boost normal body functions, leading to a healthier state of well-being.

Dealing With Bone Injuries: Symptoms of Fracture

Suffering an injury is never fun. It's even worse when you are not sure what is causing the pain. This is often the case when dealing with a possible bone fracture. In fact, it can be hard to distinguish between bone bruises and fractures. Both types of injuries produce similar types of symptoms. However, there are some noteworthy signs that indicate that a fracture is at the root of the injury.

An Onset of Swelling

It is very common to experience swelling around a broken or fractured bone. When a bone breaks the tissue around it becomes inflamed. This is due to blood and fluid leakage from the bone's interior. Hematoma can occur when leaked blood builds up in the tissues. Since swelling can occur for many reasons it is important to note the time it begins. If it coincides with the injury it probably indicates that there is a fracture in the bone.

Severe Bruising

Anytime you suffer a blow to the skin it's likely that bruising is present. The extent of the bruising can help you determine if a bone fracture lurks below. Bruising, or discoloration of the skin, points to some type of tissue damage. Yet, when the discoloration covers a large area of skin it usually means there is a fracture. Only an x-ray will be able to confirm a fracture. Your doctor will likely use digital radiology and PACS to obtain a proper diagnosis.

Popping or Crackling Sensations

If you feel or hear popping or grating movements under the skin it could be a fracture. This medical term for this type of sensation is crepitus. It is caused by fragments of bone rubbing together. This is the most common sign that a bone's continuity is damaged. Anytime you experience crepitus it is wise to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Pain Accompanies Movement

Pain results from any type of injury. However, when dealing with a fracture you may experience three separate stages of pain. Immediately after the injury you will likely have a very acute sense of pain from the fresh injury. A couple of weeks into the injury you will feel some sort of sub-acute pain that signifies the damage is healing. After the fracture has healed you can continue to experience chronic pain while the bone fully restores itself. It can take six to eight weeks to reach the third stage of pain.

Bone Protruding From the Skin

If the fracture has broken through skin you can be sure it is not mere bruising. Doctors refer to this type of fracture as a compound fracture. With such a fracture the bone and tissues become exposed to external elements. As such, compound fractures are likely to become infected by environmental pathogens. Thus, it is important to seek medical treatment right away to realign, immobilize, and cover the open fracture.

Misshapen Limbs

When fractures occur in the limbs it's not uncommon to notice a change in the shape. Deformities may show up as bumps or protrusions. This type of change usually means that the bone is not in its correct position. It may also mean that there is a serious dislocation of the bone. Either way, you should seek medical treatment as quickly as you can.

What To Do About Fractures

Most fractures will not require an emergency room visit. Emergency visits are only recommended for dislocations or compound fractures. They may also be necessary in cases of unbearable pain. However, many patients suffering from a fracture can wait for an appointment with their primary care physician. If you decide to go the appointment route make sure to immobilize the affected area and to apply hot compresses. This will keep you as comfortable as possible until a physician can provide the appropriate treatment.

3 Benefits of Being An Uber Driver

If you've ever needed a ride in a hurry, you know the benefits of using Uber. This service is practically the reason ridesharing has become a widely-known phrase. It's also not too difficult to become an Uber driver yourself. You need to have been driving for at least three years, be at least 21 years old (older in some cities), have a good driving record, pass all the background checks and have a vehicle approved by Uber. Whether you are a mom looking for a solid part-time gig for when the kids are at school, or a college student looking to make some money between classes, here are a few benefits to consider:

1. Make Your Own Hours

We imagine that this got you excited. So many people feel restrained and drained by the requirements of their work schedule. They'll have to go in every day from 9-5. Or maybe it's 10 at night to 5 in the morning. They find themselves going through the motions and acting like zombies. It can also be incredibly difficult to make time for things like your children and spouse. You have to work your personal life around your work schedule.

With Uber, you can work on your own terms. If you have things to take care of, such as chores at home, you can take care of them in advance. Should you be driving people around for several hours but then realize you have to get to the post office right then, you can sign off. If you fancy yourself as being more of a night owl, you can schedule your shifts for the evenings. You might also like your weekly job but want something more exciting to do on weekends. One of the biggest joys of being an Uber driver is that you make the final call about when you work. It's a much bigger pleasure to know that you're making the decision about when you work.

2. Meet New People

It's easy to feel restless if you're working in a job where you see the same coworkers day in and day out. They might be people who you are totally fond of. However, you might learn just about everything there is to know about them in a week or less. This could lead to feeling like you're just having empty conversations. While work should be about work, there's also something to be said for learning from other people and their experiences.

Being an Uber driver is a huge treat, because you never know exactly who you're going to meet. Each passenger is a potential new conversation. You don't have to do any massive psychoanalysis either (many passengers would prefer you don't). You can just ask them casually about where they're going. For instance, you might be taking them to a neighborhood or nearby suburb that you aren't familiar with. You can ask them about what's going on. If they're going to a restaurant, you can ask them about what kind of food they serve there. You can also introduce into the conversation gradually. Bring up experiences you've had that are relevant. Just make sure that you aren't commandeering the conversation.

If you've been feeling lonely or wanting to connect with others more, becoming an Uber driver is a good solution. You should make sure that you're not just using Uber to escape from your negative feelings. If it's especially serious, you should seek out therapy. However, this can be a good way to remind yourself of how you can learn from and connect with others. Let yourself take each ride as it is. Appreciate your passenger and the value of their company.

3. Practice Driving

So many people think only to practice driving when it comes time to get their license. Once they've been certified, they might think that the rules don't apply to them quite as much. They might not be speeding or drinking and driving. However, they might be glancing at their phone or not signaling properly. Unless given a citation or license suspension, they might not think to change their dangerous ways. They might also just not be very focused or confident in certain situations when driving.

With Uber, you need to become the best driver possible. Since you're going to be driving for a living, you have to be focused, not just for yourself, but also your customers. They're going to be the ones making the call about whether you can keep driving. If your driver rating starts falling, it's a sign that people aren't satisfied with your performance and that you could be kicked off the service.

If you have the means to, you should be driving as much as possible. You should also be challenging yourself. Accept rides to places that you don't have much experience driving. You want to prove you can handle different territories. Whenever you're driving, whether with a passenger or not, ask yourself if you're acting like a responsible driver. Any act that would be considered remotely irresponsible, such as speeding, texting, or not signaling properly when changing lanes or turning.

Should the idea of meeting new people, making your own schedule, and honing your driving skills appeal to you, you should consider becoming an Uber driver. You need to make sure of a few things. First, you need to make sure that you have a vehicle that will be up to snuff for Uber. Look for a car title loan to purchase a new vehicle if necessary. You also need to make sure that you are willing to take on the responsibility of driving people in a variety of situations. Additionally, you should be able to keep yourself accountable. Make sure that you're driving as often as possible. This will make you more skilled and help your earn even more.

Research Discovers The Link Between Money And Happiness

They say money can't buy happiness, but that may not be entirely accurate, if the latest
research into the subject is to be trusted. Researchers have found that there is definitely
a link between happiness and wealth, but it's not simply a matter of having enough money.
Happiness can only be achieved with financial stability, suggesting it's more a matter of
what your money can buy than how much of it you possess.

Making More Money Won't Matter if You're Overworked

Christian Bayer, a mathematical economist, conducted a recent study along with partner
Falko Juessen on the subject of wealth versus happiness. Published in the American
Economic Journal: Macroeconomics, the research project found that the financial stability
that typically comes along with wealth is what instills happiness in individuals. The prospect
of advancing one's position and achieving more economic stability is what gives people a
sense of fulfillment.

Conversely, people who take on extra hours may be making extra money, receiving the
added bonus of overtime pay, but they generally won't be any happier. The study found
that working extra made the subjects more tired and worn out. Even though they're making
more money, they don't have time to enjoy it. In addition, the fact that they have to work
extra hours just to maintain that level of income reminds people that their situation could
change at any moment.

Australian Unity Backs Up Claims That 

Financial Stability is Linked to Happiness

In releasing their 2015 Wellbeing of Australians Report, Australian Unity looked at a
number of factors that help people feel more fulfilled and satisfied with their lives.
One major aspect is money and how it affects the general wellbeing of an individual.
First, the study noted that $100,000 seems to be a benchmark of sorts. People making
under that sum noted a more significant link between money and happiness, while
those who earn in the six-digits actually feel less controlled in terms of financial stability.

The key point noted in the study that control over one's financial situation was directly
linked to a general sense of wellbeing. It wasn't just enough to earn a good income,
however. The study also found that people had to feel fulfilled by their work. A sense of
purpose is just as important as financial stability in terms of having a positive feeling
of wellbeing.

Don't Sweat the Big Stuff

If you're constantly surfing the web in search of cheap insurance quotes, you're likely
unhappy, concluded another study. In a study of the mental health of women in today's
society, a Princeton University research group discovered that, in addition to financial
stability, job security and life's major financial challenges could inhibit happiness. First,
the study concluded that job security is just as important as financial stability. If you face
a concern that you may lose your job, financial stability won't matter. The stress caused
by this train of thought kept even the most successful women from enjoying their success.

Additionally, obsessing over health insurance, student loans, and retirement savings can
affect one's overall happiness. The study found that women who didn't worry about these
things lived happier and less stressful lives. One subject, responding to a survey during
the study, pointed out that it's not about greed and wanting it all. She explained that,
whether one owns a mansion or a mobile home, the fear that it will be taken away is the
same. This is the basis of the fears that have been explored in all three studies.

When taken literally, the idea that money can't buy happiness may prove true, but only to
a certain extent. It's the stability and sense of confidence that the accumulation of money
provides that helps people feel happy and fulfilled in their lives. The concern that they can
lose their homes or their cars creates a fear that success and financial wellbeing can
alleviate. In that way, money does buy happiness.

Live Healthier at Work with These Simple Changes

While most people do want to live healthier lives, they sometimes feel conflicted, because their profession may limit what they can do. While some changes to your daily work routine may not be within your power, there are still some things you can do to make your workplace a healthier environment.
Get Moving
Research has revealed that sitting too long can be hazardous to your health, allowing blood clots to form and causing other circulatory problems. If you work at a desk or other environment in which you spend most of your day seated, it's important to get up and walk around once in awhile. It helps you get the blood flowing and will help you stay alert and more productive.

Improve Air Quality in the Workplace
Here is one of those things that may be out of your control. If your work area is carpeted, it may be trapping contaminants and allergens in the fibers. Ask your supervisor how often they bring in a service to provide the best carpet cleaning to determine if that may be a problem. While you may have no influence over getting the floors cleaned more often, you can bring in your own air purifier to place in your work area. Make sure it has a HEPA filter.

Comply with Health and Safety Rules
These guidelines are established for a reason, whether your employer enacted them to obey the law or because they want a safer work environment out of good conscience. In either case, following these rules can help you protect your health and help keep your workplace accident free. For instance, wearing hearing protection in noisy areas will help you keep your hearing from degenerating and wearing goggles will keep your vision protected.

Take Regular Breaks
Research has found that only one-fourth of workers take the breaks to which they are regularly entitled. Very often, people either work through their breaks or take shorter breaks than they should. This can cause stress-related illnesses to develop and can lead to musculoskeletal injuries.

Make Your Work Area More Personal
People who personalize their workspace are generally more comfortable at work, which helps them to feel relaxed and less pressured. This doesn't require any major changes, however. It can be something as simple as adding a few photographs or changing the screensaver on your computer. By making the area reflect your personality, you'll feel more at home, while you're away from home.

Develop a Healthier Routine
This begins at home, but can be extended to the workplace. Instead of going for that cup of coffee right when you wake up, go for a run first. Afterwards, enjoy a healthy breakfast and take a few minutes to relax, before heading to the office. Later in the day, reorganize how you spend your lunch break. Instead of eating a big meal and spending the hour gossiping with co-workers, eat a lighter lunch and go for a brief walk around the company grounds. You can even park your car at the farthest end of the parking lot to maximize your walking time.

Bring the Outdoors into the Office
By adding one or more plants to your work area, you can brighten the environment and promote stronger mental health. Research suggests that adding a plant or two to an environment can boost our mood and give us a better sense of wellness. It can be a small plant for your desk, or you can bring in a larger plant that will sit in the corner.

Aromatherapy Helps Reduce Stress
Adding a scented candle or an essential oil diffuser to your work area can be a great way to reduce stress and elevate your mood. Look for natural scents and select one that you really enjoy. It will help you feel less tense at work.

By making small changes like these, you can make your work environment healthier and happier. Best of all, as your co-workers see you making these changes, they may be inspired to also make healthier changes to their own work areas. Before long, everyone will be healthier and happier, boosting overall morale in the workplace.

Is Your Home Prepared for Emergencies?

Rarely ever is anyone ready for an emergency or disaster, but some preplanning can help
provide a small sense of relief. Making some lists, storing a few items, and talking about
what to do can strengthen a family. Here are a few checklists to help you get your home
and family ready.

CREATE A FAMILY EMERGENCY CONTACT PLAN

Telephones, computers, and cell towers may be out of service or intermittent. If you store
all your information on a cell phone that runs out of batteries or a laptop that cannot power
up, you will need to make a paper copy of people’s contact information. If the family is
separated, establish how and where you will reunite.

1. Write Down Contact Information

- Have phone numbers and email addresses for everyone in your household.

- Write down contact information for family members that do not live with you.

- Make a list of your doctors and the hospitals.
- Know how to contact the schools, the workplace or office, and your home insurance

company.

2. Emergency Meeting Spots

Discuss different circumstances and different places you can meet. If your home is
damaged, select a neighbor’s driveway or even a tree across the street. Streets may
need to be blocked off. In those situations, arrange to meet at a library, park, or church.

3. Practice

Make practice sessions important but lighthearted. They should not be traumatizing or
frightening.

- Visit the emergency meeting locations.

- Practicing texting each other with messages like, “I’m OK at school,” or, “I’m OK

walking to church.”

- Text messages may work when calls will not go through because texting requires

less bandwidth, and messages are stored and sent when transmission becomes available.

For more tips on what to do before, during and after any emergency, visit Ready.gov.

POWER OUTAGE PREPARATION

During an emergency power can be down for hours or longer. Having a few household
items tucked away will make short interims easier.

- Turn off lights and appliances. This will help prevent the circuits from overloading

when the power comes back on.

- Do not go near downed power lines or the crews working on them.

- Have flashlights with fresh batteries ready to go.

- Have blankets, bottled water, and nonperishable snacks on hand.

- Leave the refrigerator closed.

- Have a battery-powered radio.

After the power has been restored, replenish the flashlight batteries, and check the food
in the refrigerator. If the refrigerator dropped below 40 degrees for more than two hours,
throw the food out.

For informatin about emergencies and food safety visit the Red Cross (power outage
safety).

DRINKING WATER EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

There are situations where the drinking water supply may not get through the system.
The EPA recommends bottle water, but if the only source of water has not been treated
or is questionable, this government agency recommends boiling or sanitizing the water.

Boil the water will remove microorganism, bacteria, and viruses but the boiling will not
remove any metals, such as lead. If you cannot boil on a stovetop, do not operate charcoal
or propane barbecue appliances indoors because of carbon monoxide poisoning. For more
information how to protect yourself against carbon monoxide poisoning, visit The Center for
Disease Control (prevent carbon monoxide poisoning).

- To begin let the water sit if it is murky. Allow the sediment to fall to the bottom then

slowly strain through a clean cloth or coffee filters.

- Once the water reaches a fast rolling boil, set a timer for at least one minute, but if you

live in a high altitude (5,000 feet or higher), the water must be rapidly boiled for at least

three minutes.

- Allow the water to cool and transfer to clean containers.

Boiled water can taste flat. Adding a pinch of salt to a quart will mildly change the flavor,
or aerating the water by pouring it between two containers several times can help alter the
taste too.

It is possible to disinfect water with household bleach to find out more on that process visit
the Department of Health (Be Prepared, Be Safe).

Regrouping after any emergency can be challenging, but these three tips can make the
tasks more manageable.