August 2023 Newsletter
Patricia Lee
A Note From The Publisher
Last month I promised I would address work from home opportunities, so herrrre weeee gooo......
I have been working from home for about 15 years. Up until the Pandemic, most people thought all work from home job advertisements were nothing but scams. Now, everyone knows there are thousands of companies who do offer work from home opportunities. Some jobs require you to be an independent contractor which, simply means you pay your own taxes. You will fill out a 1099 form to submit to the IRS. However, there are many companies who hire you as an actual employee (including benefits) for remote positions. In some cases, you may be required to do a background check. The company will most likely ask you to pay for it simply because they have hundreds/thousands who go through their hiring process and it could get quite costly for the company. Not to mention, all the people who would fail their test, so yes, it is acceptable for a company to ask you to pay for the background check. The cost is usually no more than around thirty to fifty dollars.
If you do accept a job as an independent contractor, some companies will require you to work under a legally registered business name. This process can take a little time and yes, there is a small cost involved, but you need to have that in order before you go through the application process.
Several years ago I worked for a company by the name of LiveOps, Inc.. At first, I was an independent contractor but later, I was invited to be a manager. As manager, I was a full time employee with benefits. They even flew the managers out to California once a year to visit the main office. I don't think they do that anymore but it was a fun trip and they are a great company. You do have the chance for advancement and they do prefer to hire from within. Liveops provides customer service agents for a variety of businesses and insurance companies. You do have to have your license to take calls as an insurance agent. However, those calls are transferred to you by another regular Liveops agent who took general information from the client first. They have to first find out where the client resides before they can properly transfer.
Working from home is not for everybody. You do need a quiet working environment. In some cases, you may have to have a landline. You most likely will need a lap top or desk top computer, Sometimes a company will provide those things for you. When I was an employee for LiveOps, they provided my computer but as an independent contractor, I worked from my own lap top. If you are a people person, working from home may not be for you. I am outgoing and do love being around people but it did not bother me at all to work from home. It was especially great on bad weather days!
The resource I always used when working from home was ratracerebellion.com. The owners claim to always research (vet) a business before posting it on their website. However, as always, please do your own due diligence regarding any company offering a remote work opportunity. Google the company reviews and find out what others say about working for that particular business. The website lists many different companies that offer work from home opportunities and some of the companies will be very familiar to you (example: American Express, 1-800 Flowers, or U-Haul). You will be surprised how many globally known companies offer remote work. Check out the website I provided and good luck with your search!
___________________
Personal Message:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with 8,400+ members. If you own a local business and would like to advertise in our group or here in our newsletter, please email me at [email protected]. Thank you!
If you live in Destin proper, you receive the freely distributed Destin Life newspaper. Please look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Palms 144: 1 & 2: From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Bless The Lord who is my immovable Rock. He gives me strength and skill in battle. He is always kind and loving to me; He is my fortress, my tower of strength and safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield. "
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Creator: www.Facebook.com/groups/Destinites Est: October 2018
Last month I promised I would address work from home opportunities, so herrrre weeee gooo......
I have been working from home for about 15 years. Up until the Pandemic, most people thought all work from home job advertisements were nothing but scams. Now, everyone knows there are thousands of companies who do offer work from home opportunities. Some jobs require you to be an independent contractor which, simply means you pay your own taxes. You will fill out a 1099 form to submit to the IRS. However, there are many companies who hire you as an actual employee (including benefits) for remote positions. In some cases, you may be required to do a background check. The company will most likely ask you to pay for it simply because they have hundreds/thousands who go through their hiring process and it could get quite costly for the company. Not to mention, all the people who would fail their test, so yes, it is acceptable for a company to ask you to pay for the background check. The cost is usually no more than around thirty to fifty dollars.
If you do accept a job as an independent contractor, some companies will require you to work under a legally registered business name. This process can take a little time and yes, there is a small cost involved, but you need to have that in order before you go through the application process.
Several years ago I worked for a company by the name of LiveOps, Inc.. At first, I was an independent contractor but later, I was invited to be a manager. As manager, I was a full time employee with benefits. They even flew the managers out to California once a year to visit the main office. I don't think they do that anymore but it was a fun trip and they are a great company. You do have the chance for advancement and they do prefer to hire from within. Liveops provides customer service agents for a variety of businesses and insurance companies. You do have to have your license to take calls as an insurance agent. However, those calls are transferred to you by another regular Liveops agent who took general information from the client first. They have to first find out where the client resides before they can properly transfer.
Working from home is not for everybody. You do need a quiet working environment. In some cases, you may have to have a landline. You most likely will need a lap top or desk top computer, Sometimes a company will provide those things for you. When I was an employee for LiveOps, they provided my computer but as an independent contractor, I worked from my own lap top. If you are a people person, working from home may not be for you. I am outgoing and do love being around people but it did not bother me at all to work from home. It was especially great on bad weather days!
The resource I always used when working from home was ratracerebellion.com. The owners claim to always research (vet) a business before posting it on their website. However, as always, please do your own due diligence regarding any company offering a remote work opportunity. Google the company reviews and find out what others say about working for that particular business. The website lists many different companies that offer work from home opportunities and some of the companies will be very familiar to you (example: American Express, 1-800 Flowers, or U-Haul). You will be surprised how many globally known companies offer remote work. Check out the website I provided and good luck with your search!
___________________
Personal Message:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with 8,400+ members. If you own a local business and would like to advertise in our group or here in our newsletter, please email me at [email protected]. Thank you!
If you live in Destin proper, you receive the freely distributed Destin Life newspaper. Please look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Palms 144: 1 & 2: From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Bless The Lord who is my immovable Rock. He gives me strength and skill in battle. He is always kind and loving to me; He is my fortress, my tower of strength and safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield. "
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Creator: www.Facebook.com/groups/Destinites Est: October 2018
If you are interested in being a sponsor or article contributor, contact Patricia: [email protected]
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Lori Leath Smith
Talking Turtles With Marine Biologist, Jessica Valek:
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Written by: Christopher Manson
In January 2022, a partnership between Okaloosa Island’s Gulfarium and the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Tourism Department was launched. “C.A.R.E.”ing for Turtles takes place at the Gulfarium every Wednesday through the end of July; then every other Wednesday in August. The hour-long program is $15 for ages eight and up.
Jessica Valek, Coastal Resource Coordinator for the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Tourism Department, is very involved in the program. “We teach everyone about sea turtles in general, the ones we see along the Gulf of Mexico,” she says. “I do a lot of our turtle nesting work. I go out every day and look for nests. This is a good partnership.”
Attendees (locals and tourists) learn about the nesting process, how to protect turtles on the beach, and the different threats turtles face on our beaches and fishing piers. In addition, guests get a behind the scenes look at the C.A.R.E. turtle hospital and what they do there. “It’s really cool, because they always have new turtles,” says Ms. Valek.
“At the end of the program, we do a mock intake of an injured sea turtle.” The attendees assess the turtle and determine whether it should go into rehab or be released. “They get to be a turtle biologist for a day, and they get a little goodie bag with turtle-friendly items to take home. It’s a good time.”
Ms. Valek’s coastal resources team includes two other marine biologists. “I focus on sea turtle conservation and do the morning nest surveys from May to August assessing the nests. I also do outreach and education and assist with anything turtle-related.”
She has been in her current position for almost three years. Prior to that, the University of West Florida graduate had other marine biologist jobs throughout Florida. Originally from Minnesota, Ms. Valek says, “I’ve always been interested in marine biology, so I packed up and moved. And I haven’t regretted it!”
She currently lives in Navarre with her dogs Luna and Jim, as well as four cats. “I enjoy scuba diving, paddleboarding, hiking – anything on the water or anything I can do with my dogs.”
“C.A.R.E.”ing for Turtles is limited to approximately 15 people, and Ms. Valek says they usually reach that number. “We’ve gotten really positive feedback,” she says. “Most people seem to enjoy the information and getting to see the turtles. It just keeps getting better and better.”
Among the things she finds most rewarding? “The impact the program has on other people and them registering how they can make a difference not just for turtles, but for the environment in general.”
Ms. Valek’s team is involved with more than just sea turtles. “Our department is helping fund environmental-related projects,” she says. “We do beach re-nourishment, invasive species removal and artificial reefs. We monitor anything related to the coast and the water.”
Learn more about “C.A.R.E.”ing for Turtles at gulfarium.com.Turtle Tips“When you go to the beach, fill in your holes,” says Ms. Valek. “Flatten your sandcastles when you leave. Remove umbrellas, chairs and trash. Those are obstacles for sea turtles.”
Refrain from using white light on the beach at night. “We are giving away turtle-friendly flashlights at the Welcome Center on Miracle Strip Parkway,” she says. “We give you as many as you want.”
Be good environmental stewards. “Recycle. And don’t litter!”
Submitted by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
Written by: Christopher Manson
In January 2022, a partnership between Okaloosa Island’s Gulfarium and the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Tourism Department was launched. “C.A.R.E.”ing for Turtles takes place at the Gulfarium every Wednesday through the end of July; then every other Wednesday in August. The hour-long program is $15 for ages eight and up.
Jessica Valek, Coastal Resource Coordinator for the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Tourism Department, is very involved in the program. “We teach everyone about sea turtles in general, the ones we see along the Gulf of Mexico,” she says. “I do a lot of our turtle nesting work. I go out every day and look for nests. This is a good partnership.”
Attendees (locals and tourists) learn about the nesting process, how to protect turtles on the beach, and the different threats turtles face on our beaches and fishing piers. In addition, guests get a behind the scenes look at the C.A.R.E. turtle hospital and what they do there. “It’s really cool, because they always have new turtles,” says Ms. Valek.
“At the end of the program, we do a mock intake of an injured sea turtle.” The attendees assess the turtle and determine whether it should go into rehab or be released. “They get to be a turtle biologist for a day, and they get a little goodie bag with turtle-friendly items to take home. It’s a good time.”
Ms. Valek’s coastal resources team includes two other marine biologists. “I focus on sea turtle conservation and do the morning nest surveys from May to August assessing the nests. I also do outreach and education and assist with anything turtle-related.”
She has been in her current position for almost three years. Prior to that, the University of West Florida graduate had other marine biologist jobs throughout Florida. Originally from Minnesota, Ms. Valek says, “I’ve always been interested in marine biology, so I packed up and moved. And I haven’t regretted it!”
She currently lives in Navarre with her dogs Luna and Jim, as well as four cats. “I enjoy scuba diving, paddleboarding, hiking – anything on the water or anything I can do with my dogs.”
“C.A.R.E.”ing for Turtles is limited to approximately 15 people, and Ms. Valek says they usually reach that number. “We’ve gotten really positive feedback,” she says. “Most people seem to enjoy the information and getting to see the turtles. It just keeps getting better and better.”
Among the things she finds most rewarding? “The impact the program has on other people and them registering how they can make a difference not just for turtles, but for the environment in general.”
Ms. Valek’s team is involved with more than just sea turtles. “Our department is helping fund environmental-related projects,” she says. “We do beach re-nourishment, invasive species removal and artificial reefs. We monitor anything related to the coast and the water.”
Learn more about “C.A.R.E.”ing for Turtles at gulfarium.com.Turtle Tips“When you go to the beach, fill in your holes,” says Ms. Valek. “Flatten your sandcastles when you leave. Remove umbrellas, chairs and trash. Those are obstacles for sea turtles.”
Refrain from using white light on the beach at night. “We are giving away turtle-friendly flashlights at the Welcome Center on Miracle Strip Parkway,” she says. “We give you as many as you want.”
Be good environmental stewards. “Recycle. And don’t litter!”
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Andrea & Paul McArthur
AUGUST TASKS TO WRAP UP SUMMER:
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
The dog days of summer are barking, and Labor Day another epic season in the sun. But before you give your flamingo pool float one last hurrah, take a break with some home maintenance prep for the changing season ahead.
We know what you’re thinking: It’s still summer, and you’re being a buzzkill! Why worry now about what you can do next month? Well, as it turns out, some home maintenance tasks are best tackled in August, before temperatures start dipping.
Don’t worry! We’re here to make all those chores as quick and easy on you as possible. With our handy checklist of home maintenance tasks, you can knock ’em out and be back to your barbecues and beach days in no time.
Check washing machine: With the kids home from school and loads of sweaty garments to clean, your washing machine has likely taken a major beating this summer. With all that extra use, be sure to check that the water supply hoses which connect to your machine are in good condition.
If they are older black rubber hoses, check for any bulging in the hose or any parts that look worn.
DIY: If you have worn hoses, you can swap them out with replacements for as little as $25, but it’ll take you some effort. After you’ve turned off the water supply to the hoses, use adjustable pliers to loosen one hose at a time from the water supply, and then from the washing machine. You’ll also need to make sure your new hose has a rubber washer in each end. If your hoses are made of rubber, consider upgrading and replacing them with rupture-proof, braided stainless-steel hoses.
CALL IN THE PROS: A pro will save you the effort, but you’ll shell out around $150 for the job. How much are your days in the summer sun worth to you, anyhow?
Prune dead wood: Now’s the time to tidy up your perennials and clear those unsightly dead twigs and branches, according to Tony Smith, president of Nursery Enterprises in Rexburg, ID.
Not only will you have a more attractive yard, but “by cleaning them out this summer, you’ll create a clean slate—and next summer you’ll have a better grasp in understanding your plants’ health.” Smith says.
DIY: You’ll need pruners, a saw, and loppers (or a chain saw) to really attack this job.
CALL IN THE PROS: If the mere thought of wielding a chain saw gives you the heebie-jeebies, call in a professional landscape company to do the deed. The cost depends, of course, on the extent of the work and the size of your yard but expect to pay at least $400 to $1,300 for a reputable, licensed tree trimmer.
Clear gutters: Summer thunderstorms can clog your gutters and lead to costly water damage down the road. Properly functioning gutters direct water away from your home, but muck and debris can cause water to collect around your home’s foundation and seep into your basement, if you have one. Clogged gutters also make great homes for rodents and other vermin just in case you needed another reason to tackle this task.
DIY: Grab a ladder and shimmy up to the roof to inspect your gutters and drains, taking care to wear proper hand and eye protection. A simple garden trowel is effective for clearing most debris.
CALL IN THE PROS: Scared of heights? The average gutter job will run you up to $250-$400
Deal with insects: Wasp activity peaks in late summer; these insects become more aggressive and likely to sting in, you guessed it, August. So, you’ll want to spray for wasps and eliminate them, pronto.
DIY: The first step to eliminating a wasp nest is to identify where the colony lives. Scan your lawn, looking for activity close to the ground. Once you find where the wasps are coming and going, apply wasp treatment to the entrance. Repeat this step every few days until you no longer see any activity.
We also recommend patrolling your property for stagnant water, which can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
First, drain any areas that are holding water—this step alone should significantly cut down on mosquito activity. This means birdbaths, planters, or any other places where rainfall might have accumulated. For further prevention, invest in forms of mosquito repellant like citronella candles, mosquito traps, and bug zappers.
Finally, check the seals around your home, including doors, windows, and dryer vents. Caulk or expanding sealants should be more than enough to seal most openings, according to Patterson.
CALL IN THE PROS: The national average cost of wasp removal ranges between $100 and $1,300. The cost of mosquito control depends on a variety of factors, including property size and treatment frequency. An entire summer of mosquito treatment could run $500 or more, but you’re more likely to get a deal now that it’s later in the season.
Clean your natural stone: Clean natural stone around your home to prevent food, dirt, and oil stains from setting in.
After a summer filled with nonstop grilling fests, family gatherings, and just general outdoor fun and wear and tear, it’s important to properly clean natural stone around your home—whether it’s outdoor granite countertops, stone walkways, or patios—to prevent food, dirt, and oil stains from setting in and leaving permanent marks.
DIY: Start by dusting off stone surfaces, because abrasive materials such as dirt or sand (carried home from weekend getaways) can cause damage. Avoid using harsh cleaning products on natural stone; instead, choose a gentle cleanser with a neutral pH (preferably without soap, which causes streaks and film) and a soft cloth. For a longer-lasting finish and better protection against stains and grime, consider applying a water-based penetrating sealer.
CALL IN THE PROS: For serious stains, call in a professional stone maintenance company to restore your stone. Expect to spend anywhere between $400 and $1,200, depending on the level of grime.
Get your furnace prepped: When residential furnaces fail, they typically do so during the coldest days of the year, which is why it’s important to have these systems inspected in August, before temperatures drop. An annual tune-up and inspection can help homeowners save money, maintain comfort, and ensure safety when units are turned on for the first time in several months.
CALL IN THE PROS: There’s no shortcut for this one; maintaining your furnace is something you’ll want to defer to a pro. Typically, HVAC companies run prewinter specials for this kind of work, so keep your eyes peeled for deals—but expect to spend between $200 - $500.
BOTTOMLINE… Don’t wait until the last minute! As we’re fond of saying, being proactive can save you a ton of dough when it comes to your house! In our experience, it’s always cheaper to maintain it than to repair it!
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
The dog days of summer are barking, and Labor Day another epic season in the sun. But before you give your flamingo pool float one last hurrah, take a break with some home maintenance prep for the changing season ahead.
We know what you’re thinking: It’s still summer, and you’re being a buzzkill! Why worry now about what you can do next month? Well, as it turns out, some home maintenance tasks are best tackled in August, before temperatures start dipping.
Don’t worry! We’re here to make all those chores as quick and easy on you as possible. With our handy checklist of home maintenance tasks, you can knock ’em out and be back to your barbecues and beach days in no time.
Check washing machine: With the kids home from school and loads of sweaty garments to clean, your washing machine has likely taken a major beating this summer. With all that extra use, be sure to check that the water supply hoses which connect to your machine are in good condition.
If they are older black rubber hoses, check for any bulging in the hose or any parts that look worn.
DIY: If you have worn hoses, you can swap them out with replacements for as little as $25, but it’ll take you some effort. After you’ve turned off the water supply to the hoses, use adjustable pliers to loosen one hose at a time from the water supply, and then from the washing machine. You’ll also need to make sure your new hose has a rubber washer in each end. If your hoses are made of rubber, consider upgrading and replacing them with rupture-proof, braided stainless-steel hoses.
CALL IN THE PROS: A pro will save you the effort, but you’ll shell out around $150 for the job. How much are your days in the summer sun worth to you, anyhow?
Prune dead wood: Now’s the time to tidy up your perennials and clear those unsightly dead twigs and branches, according to Tony Smith, president of Nursery Enterprises in Rexburg, ID.
Not only will you have a more attractive yard, but “by cleaning them out this summer, you’ll create a clean slate—and next summer you’ll have a better grasp in understanding your plants’ health.” Smith says.
DIY: You’ll need pruners, a saw, and loppers (or a chain saw) to really attack this job.
CALL IN THE PROS: If the mere thought of wielding a chain saw gives you the heebie-jeebies, call in a professional landscape company to do the deed. The cost depends, of course, on the extent of the work and the size of your yard but expect to pay at least $400 to $1,300 for a reputable, licensed tree trimmer.
Clear gutters: Summer thunderstorms can clog your gutters and lead to costly water damage down the road. Properly functioning gutters direct water away from your home, but muck and debris can cause water to collect around your home’s foundation and seep into your basement, if you have one. Clogged gutters also make great homes for rodents and other vermin just in case you needed another reason to tackle this task.
DIY: Grab a ladder and shimmy up to the roof to inspect your gutters and drains, taking care to wear proper hand and eye protection. A simple garden trowel is effective for clearing most debris.
CALL IN THE PROS: Scared of heights? The average gutter job will run you up to $250-$400
Deal with insects: Wasp activity peaks in late summer; these insects become more aggressive and likely to sting in, you guessed it, August. So, you’ll want to spray for wasps and eliminate them, pronto.
DIY: The first step to eliminating a wasp nest is to identify where the colony lives. Scan your lawn, looking for activity close to the ground. Once you find where the wasps are coming and going, apply wasp treatment to the entrance. Repeat this step every few days until you no longer see any activity.
We also recommend patrolling your property for stagnant water, which can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
First, drain any areas that are holding water—this step alone should significantly cut down on mosquito activity. This means birdbaths, planters, or any other places where rainfall might have accumulated. For further prevention, invest in forms of mosquito repellant like citronella candles, mosquito traps, and bug zappers.
Finally, check the seals around your home, including doors, windows, and dryer vents. Caulk or expanding sealants should be more than enough to seal most openings, according to Patterson.
CALL IN THE PROS: The national average cost of wasp removal ranges between $100 and $1,300. The cost of mosquito control depends on a variety of factors, including property size and treatment frequency. An entire summer of mosquito treatment could run $500 or more, but you’re more likely to get a deal now that it’s later in the season.
Clean your natural stone: Clean natural stone around your home to prevent food, dirt, and oil stains from setting in.
After a summer filled with nonstop grilling fests, family gatherings, and just general outdoor fun and wear and tear, it’s important to properly clean natural stone around your home—whether it’s outdoor granite countertops, stone walkways, or patios—to prevent food, dirt, and oil stains from setting in and leaving permanent marks.
DIY: Start by dusting off stone surfaces, because abrasive materials such as dirt or sand (carried home from weekend getaways) can cause damage. Avoid using harsh cleaning products on natural stone; instead, choose a gentle cleanser with a neutral pH (preferably without soap, which causes streaks and film) and a soft cloth. For a longer-lasting finish and better protection against stains and grime, consider applying a water-based penetrating sealer.
CALL IN THE PROS: For serious stains, call in a professional stone maintenance company to restore your stone. Expect to spend anywhere between $400 and $1,200, depending on the level of grime.
Get your furnace prepped: When residential furnaces fail, they typically do so during the coldest days of the year, which is why it’s important to have these systems inspected in August, before temperatures drop. An annual tune-up and inspection can help homeowners save money, maintain comfort, and ensure safety when units are turned on for the first time in several months.
CALL IN THE PROS: There’s no shortcut for this one; maintaining your furnace is something you’ll want to defer to a pro. Typically, HVAC companies run prewinter specials for this kind of work, so keep your eyes peeled for deals—but expect to spend between $200 - $500.
BOTTOMLINE… Don’t wait until the last minute! As we’re fond of saying, being proactive can save you a ton of dough when it comes to your house! In our experience, it’s always cheaper to maintain it than to repair it!
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Daniel Jones
Inflation And Your Home Insurance:
provided by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
Yes, Inflation is Even Affecting Your Home Insurance
Between gas prices, groceries, and just about everything else the soaring cost of goods has probably caused you to rethink some of your spending habits. You’re probably even wondering if your insurance will be exempt from the increase; the unfortunate answer is probably not.
We often get asked by our customers why their premiums are going up even though they haven’t ever had a claim, usually the answer is inflation.
How does inflation affect your insurance? It's not a simple answer of prices go up so your premium must go up.
One of the biggest factors in your premium is your RCV (Replacement Cost Value). It factors in all of the characteristics of your home to calculate how much it would take to rebuild your home with the same unique features. If the costs of these materials go up, so does the cost to rebuild your home. In general, the Replacement Cost Value is similar to the appraisal or purchase price, but as we’ve seen in Florida, the later two valuations can be exuberant compared to the insurance valuation. Having your RCV be lower than your appraisal is generally a way to have a bit lower of a premium, but can prove disastrous if there is too much of a discrepancy between the two. If your home’s RCV is not at least 80%, the insurance company is not obligated to pay the full amount for a claim to your home.
Hot real estate markets like here in Northwest Florida have been increasing almost 25% per year for the last few years causing home values to soar above that Emerald Coast. Home values for everyone have increased, but I bet your Replacement Cost Value hasn’t been adjusted has it? No one wants to pay more for their insurance premium, but by keeping it adequately insured, you’ll avoid harsh rate increases or insufficiently paid claims.
One great product that home insurance companies usually have that will help bridge the gap between your RCV and the market’s valuation of your home, is inflation guard. Inflation Guard is the automatic annual increase in your property’s valuation and premium. It’s like the set it and forget it of the home insurance policy. The slight increase may sound a bit shady, but in reality, it helps buffer your premium against sudden and steep rate increases.
So the two simple things you can do today to make sure you aren’t hit with soaring premium increases in the future:
provided by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
Yes, Inflation is Even Affecting Your Home Insurance
Between gas prices, groceries, and just about everything else the soaring cost of goods has probably caused you to rethink some of your spending habits. You’re probably even wondering if your insurance will be exempt from the increase; the unfortunate answer is probably not.
We often get asked by our customers why their premiums are going up even though they haven’t ever had a claim, usually the answer is inflation.
How does inflation affect your insurance? It's not a simple answer of prices go up so your premium must go up.
One of the biggest factors in your premium is your RCV (Replacement Cost Value). It factors in all of the characteristics of your home to calculate how much it would take to rebuild your home with the same unique features. If the costs of these materials go up, so does the cost to rebuild your home. In general, the Replacement Cost Value is similar to the appraisal or purchase price, but as we’ve seen in Florida, the later two valuations can be exuberant compared to the insurance valuation. Having your RCV be lower than your appraisal is generally a way to have a bit lower of a premium, but can prove disastrous if there is too much of a discrepancy between the two. If your home’s RCV is not at least 80%, the insurance company is not obligated to pay the full amount for a claim to your home.
Hot real estate markets like here in Northwest Florida have been increasing almost 25% per year for the last few years causing home values to soar above that Emerald Coast. Home values for everyone have increased, but I bet your Replacement Cost Value hasn’t been adjusted has it? No one wants to pay more for their insurance premium, but by keeping it adequately insured, you’ll avoid harsh rate increases or insufficiently paid claims.
One great product that home insurance companies usually have that will help bridge the gap between your RCV and the market’s valuation of your home, is inflation guard. Inflation Guard is the automatic annual increase in your property’s valuation and premium. It’s like the set it and forget it of the home insurance policy. The slight increase may sound a bit shady, but in reality, it helps buffer your premium against sudden and steep rate increases.
So the two simple things you can do today to make sure you aren’t hit with soaring premium increases in the future:
- Make sure your Replacement Cost Value is up to date with market trends for your area. Your insurance agent should be able to do this through company website and their own software. Be sure to tell them about any upgrades to your home like flooring, countertops, or custom built ins.
- Add inflation guard to your policy
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Jessica Fricke
Go West!
by Jessica Fricke Independent Travel Advisor with Travelmation
Thanks largely to the popularity of the television show, Yellowstone has become THE vacation
hot spot for domestic travelers. Requests for a trip “out west” have taken over, and it’s easy to
see why. Mountains, geysers, cowboys, bears, and beauty- there is truly something for
everyone and every type of traveler. In this article, I am going to highlight some of my favorite
lodging accommodations in the Yellowstone area.
Dude Ranches:
Want to live like a Dutton for a while? Check out one of the numerous dude ranches! There are all inclusive options, family friendly options (even with kid’s clubs!), adult only options, and more. A typical stay on a dude ranch may include trail rides, campfires, rafting, fishing, hiking, cooking classes, and line dancing.
Luxury:
Rustic not your thing? Have no fear- there are plenty of luxury options as well! Check out my favorite luxury option at Four Seasons Jackson Hole. Top notch spa, delicious dining, heated pool, concierge services, private guides, gorgeous rooms, and more will await you here at the vacation of your dreams.
Inside the Park:
Did you know that you can actually sleep in a hotel inside of Yellowstone National Park? Options here include campgrounds, RV parks, hotels, cabins and lodges. Word of warning- most accommodations do not include air conditioning, and many have only shared bathrooms! But you may be able to watch Old Faithful from your hotel room window which is pretty neat.
Glamping:
Under Canvas offers some of the most unique National Park lodging options around the US. Oversized, fully furnished tents, private bathrooms, outdoor lounges, restaurants, fire pits, and scheduled daily activities make this a super fun option for everyone in the family.
Practical:
When all else fails, you can never go wrong with a good, standard hotel for travel. My personal favorite in the area is The Lodge at Jackson Hole. Beautiful rooms with rustic finishings, indoor/outdoor heated pool and jacuzzi, delicious breakfast buffet, ski and snowboard storage, fireside bar and more make this an ideal yet affordable option for most everyone. Reach out to your favorite Travel Advisor today to get started planning your own Yellowstone vacation!
by Jessica Fricke Independent Travel Advisor with Travelmation
Thanks largely to the popularity of the television show, Yellowstone has become THE vacation
hot spot for domestic travelers. Requests for a trip “out west” have taken over, and it’s easy to
see why. Mountains, geysers, cowboys, bears, and beauty- there is truly something for
everyone and every type of traveler. In this article, I am going to highlight some of my favorite
lodging accommodations in the Yellowstone area.
Dude Ranches:
Want to live like a Dutton for a while? Check out one of the numerous dude ranches! There are all inclusive options, family friendly options (even with kid’s clubs!), adult only options, and more. A typical stay on a dude ranch may include trail rides, campfires, rafting, fishing, hiking, cooking classes, and line dancing.
Luxury:
Rustic not your thing? Have no fear- there are plenty of luxury options as well! Check out my favorite luxury option at Four Seasons Jackson Hole. Top notch spa, delicious dining, heated pool, concierge services, private guides, gorgeous rooms, and more will await you here at the vacation of your dreams.
Inside the Park:
Did you know that you can actually sleep in a hotel inside of Yellowstone National Park? Options here include campgrounds, RV parks, hotels, cabins and lodges. Word of warning- most accommodations do not include air conditioning, and many have only shared bathrooms! But you may be able to watch Old Faithful from your hotel room window which is pretty neat.
Glamping:
Under Canvas offers some of the most unique National Park lodging options around the US. Oversized, fully furnished tents, private bathrooms, outdoor lounges, restaurants, fire pits, and scheduled daily activities make this a super fun option for everyone in the family.
Practical:
When all else fails, you can never go wrong with a good, standard hotel for travel. My personal favorite in the area is The Lodge at Jackson Hole. Beautiful rooms with rustic finishings, indoor/outdoor heated pool and jacuzzi, delicious breakfast buffet, ski and snowboard storage, fireside bar and more make this an ideal yet affordable option for most everyone. Reach out to your favorite Travel Advisor today to get started planning your own Yellowstone vacation!
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Kim Schneider
What Are Your Outdoor Cushions Saying?:
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Patios are like an extension of our home and can be seen from the inside. We dine al
fresco, entertain our guests and have stay-cations. What do your patio cushions and
pillows look like? Have they been faded by the sun? Stained by the kids? Chewed on
by the fur baby? Left out unprotected and beginning to mildew? Are they dipping in
the center of the seat? Are the pillows slouching? All of these things produce an “I’m
worn out” look and should be replaced.
Often times a set of cushions are included when we purchase our patio furniture. These cushions may look good but they’re not always constructed with the best products. Cheap foam can break down in no time especially in our weather. Daily use will also
break down cheap foam. Sun protected fabrics are not all the same and your fabric can fade and deteriorate quickly. When cushions are left out in the elements these materials can grow mold.
To help the longevity of your existing cushions bring them in during inclement weather or store them in a outdoor storage container. You can also protect your entire patio set with a UV-resistant, water repellent cover. Buy a water repellent fabric spray to use on
your cushions. We suggest testing a small area for potential fading or colors melting into one another before spraying the entire cushion. For best results, we recommend reading the manufacturer’s care label on your cushions.
When you’re ready for new cushions, consider purchasing custom made cushions. They will fit your furniture perfectly, are made with top-notch materials and you’ll have hundreds of quality fabrics, colors and prints to select from. Most importantly your new
cushions will reflect YOU.
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Patios are like an extension of our home and can be seen from the inside. We dine al
fresco, entertain our guests and have stay-cations. What do your patio cushions and
pillows look like? Have they been faded by the sun? Stained by the kids? Chewed on
by the fur baby? Left out unprotected and beginning to mildew? Are they dipping in
the center of the seat? Are the pillows slouching? All of these things produce an “I’m
worn out” look and should be replaced.
Often times a set of cushions are included when we purchase our patio furniture. These cushions may look good but they’re not always constructed with the best products. Cheap foam can break down in no time especially in our weather. Daily use will also
break down cheap foam. Sun protected fabrics are not all the same and your fabric can fade and deteriorate quickly. When cushions are left out in the elements these materials can grow mold.
To help the longevity of your existing cushions bring them in during inclement weather or store them in a outdoor storage container. You can also protect your entire patio set with a UV-resistant, water repellent cover. Buy a water repellent fabric spray to use on
your cushions. We suggest testing a small area for potential fading or colors melting into one another before spraying the entire cushion. For best results, we recommend reading the manufacturer’s care label on your cushions.
When you’re ready for new cushions, consider purchasing custom made cushions. They will fit your furniture perfectly, are made with top-notch materials and you’ll have hundreds of quality fabrics, colors and prints to select from. Most importantly your new
cushions will reflect YOU.
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Travel & Day Trips Around Florida
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html
Check It Out!
Events Calendar
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AREA EVENTS! <-- Please click the picture to view some of our local events for the Destin area. Monthly Calendar. |
Destin City www.cityofdestin.com
Volunteer Opportunites: Posted from the Destin City website at Volunteer Opportunities | Destin, FL - Official Website (cityofdestin.com)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
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Okaloosa County Master Gardeners: Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OCMGA
If you want to know what to plant and when, check out this Planting calendar on the OCMGA website. https://www.ocmga.org |
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August at the Destin Library: Click on the picture to be taken to the Library's calendar of events for the month of May. They have some exciting, fun things taking place! I think you just may be surprised at what all goes on there. There is a lot more than just books at that place. Check it out! |
Christian Corner: by Patricia Lee
Ephesians: 5:1-2 From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Follow God's example in everything you do just as a much loved child imitates his father. Be full of love for others following the example of Christ who loved you and gave himself to God as a sacrifice to take away your sins."
Jesus and Father God love us all. Yes, ALL! They may not like the things we do or say but they love us. Hate the sin; not the sinner, is what Jesus did and it is what Father God wants us all to do. Most of us feel that is easier said than done. I didn't think it was possible until recent years and it did take a lot of practice. I remember the first time I prayed a genuine prayer over an enemy. It must have taken me 30 minutes to muster up the first sentence. I kid you not but what I found is that it got easier and easier, as my prayer went along. By the end of that long prayer I had let go of the hate and had forgiveness in my heart. Now days, I find myself forgiving the person at the same time the hate is spuing from them. That is because I know God is listening and will bring justice. If you practice forgiveness enough, it does get easier.
Ephesians: 5:1-2 From The Living Bible 1972 version
"Follow God's example in everything you do just as a much loved child imitates his father. Be full of love for others following the example of Christ who loved you and gave himself to God as a sacrifice to take away your sins."
Jesus and Father God love us all. Yes, ALL! They may not like the things we do or say but they love us. Hate the sin; not the sinner, is what Jesus did and it is what Father God wants us all to do. Most of us feel that is easier said than done. I didn't think it was possible until recent years and it did take a lot of practice. I remember the first time I prayed a genuine prayer over an enemy. It must have taken me 30 minutes to muster up the first sentence. I kid you not but what I found is that it got easier and easier, as my prayer went along. By the end of that long prayer I had let go of the hate and had forgiveness in my heart. Now days, I find myself forgiving the person at the same time the hate is spuing from them. That is because I know God is listening and will bring justice. If you practice forgiveness enough, it does get easier.
No part of this website or newsletter may copied or reproduced in any way without expressed written consent of the owner. Destinites is a legally registered name with logo copyright and TM. All rights reserved 2023.
Website Est. 2018
Newsletter Est. Dec. 2021