James L. Paris's Blog, page 8
July 28, 2021
Get Paid To Take An Epic American Road Trip
A nationwide road trip is an American rite of passage. If you have the time, a driving trip provides the opportunity to see the country up close and personal. You can even take in those odd local attractions, such as the World���s Largest Ball Of Twine in Cawker City, Kansas. One way to make that road trip happen is as a driveaway driver. The idea is simple; you get paid to move a car or RV from point A to point B. A typical scenario: Bill and Mary are moving from Florida to New York. Mary will drive one of the family vehicles and Bill follows in the moving truck. That leaves one of the cars stranded back in New York. They could hire an expensive vehicle transport service, but they risk damage to their car from it being loaded on a multi-vehicle trailer. So, they pay for the vehicle to be driven from New York to Florida. In most cases it will cost less money and their car will arrive sooner. Another scenario is an RV manufacturer that needs to deliver a new motorhome from their Indiana factory to a buyer in Oregon. Nothing like getting to drive a brand spanking new RV right off the production line! Other vehicles you could end up relocating include ambulances, custom vans, and even box trucks (all non CDL vehicles). You only need a CDL (commercial driver���s license) for larger commercial vehicles such as buses or eighteen-wheelers.
A simple Google search for ���Driveaway Driver��� will bring up quite a lengthy list of companies to consider. Typical pay is about $500 to $1,000 per trip plus expenses.
Basic Requirements:
Driver���s License
Good Driving Record
Age 23 to 75
In some cases you will be required to attend an orientation (which can many times be completed online)
What About Insurance?
Most companies have a master liability insurance policy that would cover any damage to the vehicle, but it is an important question to ask when considering your options.
Other Considerations
Be sure and run the numbers before you agree to your first driveaway gig. Don���t forget to account for expenses such as food, hotels, and the cost of your return trip home.
Helping you make the most of God���s money!
James L. Paris
Editor-In-Chief ChristianMoney.com
Follow Me on Twitter Twitter.com/jameslparis
Christian Financial Advice
Jim Paris 24 Hour Radio
More Than 150 Free TV Channels Were Included With My New 4K Television (Cord Cutter Update)
I was a bit confused but pleasantly surprised when setting up my new 4K TV to see a built-in app called Samsung TV Plus. After clicking on the app I was amazed to see a scrolling menu with over 150 channels (many broadcasting in 4K). Not a free trial ��� these channels are included and free forever (Samsung TV or device required). Many channels have commercials, but those of you paying for cable TV also have ads on top of shelling out $75 or more per month, right?
If you don���t have a Samsung TV, there is a growing list of apps offering hundreds of free channels (compatible with Roku and similar devices). My latest list includes Crackle, Tubi TV, Pluto TV, NewsOn, Funny or Die, PBS Kids, Xumo, IMDB TV, and Peacock (my favorite in recent months has been Pluto TV). I am an early adopter of cord-cutting, dropping cable TV more than 7 years ago.
Why I Upgraded To 4K?
What is it? 4K is also known as Ultra High Definition TV. 4K means that your screen resolution is four times that of HDTV.
The latest stats are that about one third of Americans now have a 4K TV in their home. I heard all the hype years ago when 4K first became available, but I have been happy with my HDTV until the picture started going out last week. The early knock on 4K was not about the technology, but the limited number of programs being produced for the format. Today, 4K is widely available and has become a mainstream format.
My first evening of watching 4K was an adjustment! I took it for a test drive pulling up one of my favorite shows on Netflix. I was so distracted by the breathtaking resolution I lost track of the plot and had to watch the episode over again. I had the sensation that I was looking through a window, not watching TV. The actors appeared as if they were right in front of me. One scene with a helicopter looked as if it is was flying outside the screen!
Cost To Move Up To 4K?
I went with a 50 inch Samsung that I bought online for under $500. There are lower prices out there available with lesser known brands, but I paid a little more for a model with the highest reviews. With the apparent death of the movie theater, 4K TV is a great option and they are more affordable than ever.
No Set Top Box Needed
Another surprise was that my new smart TV does not require a set top box. I have been a Roku user for years, but don���t need it now. All the apps are installed directly in the TV. These new 4K smart TVs take cord-cutting to an Olympic level. No more good excuses left to keep paying that hefty monthly cable TV bill.
Helping you make the most of God���s money!
James L. Paris
Editor-In-Chief ChristianMoney.com
Follow Me on Twitter Twitter.com/jameslparis
Christian Financial Advice
Jim Paris 24 Hour Radio
I Saved 30% On My Auto Insurance By Joining A Farm Bureau And I Am Not A Farmer
My wife and I have become increasingly frustrated at the rising cost of our auto insurance. We live in Florida, and all forms of insurance here are becoming more expensive because of the explosion in population.
I stumbled across an article that listed Florida Farm Bureau as the best value for auto insurance in my state. I had honestly never heard of the company, but I hit the computer and found the phone number for the local office. I got a quick price quote over the phone, which offered a savings of over 30% from my current rate!
The agent explained, however, that in order to purchase the insurance I had to be a member of the Farm Bureau. Well, I am not a farmer (I can���t even keep my small garden alive), so I thought I was out of luck. The good news was that I could become a member for $50 a year and anyone could join.
After my wife returned home from work I gave her all the details and we decided to jump on the offer right away. She drove to their office to pay the membership fee and sign up for the insurance. She laughed and said they even had peanuts and other produce for sale at their office. Not sure I have ever bought peanuts from my insurance agent, but it was a confirmation that they are a legit farmers��� organization!
Because the price was so good, we kept thinking there would be some kind of catch. Everything worked out, and we have had the coverage for 18 months now. To connect with the affiliate in your state, just do a Google search Your State + Farm Bureau. They also offer homeowners insurance in most states as well.
Helping you make the most of God���s money!
James L. Paris
Editor-In-Chief ChristianMoney.com
Follow Me on Twitter Twitter.com/jameslparis
Christian Financial Advice
Jim Paris 24 Hour Radio
Earn Residual Income Renting Storage Space In Your Home
Americans have too much stuff! Who can argue with that? Self storage is a $40 billion dollar per year business. If you have ever rented space at one of these facilities, you know it is not cheap. Even a small 10 x 10 unit can cost $100 or more per month. The price skyrockets when you consider storing larger items such as RVs, boats, or automobiles.
The New Opportunity In Peer To Peer Storage Space Rental
Cutting out the big box rental facilities, so called peer-to-peer storage apps are connecting people with available space in their home with those needing storage. A garage, an unused bedroom, a basement, a driveway, backyard, or a shed, can now easily be converted into a monthly cash flow. The mother lode is in RV and boat storage (for those without neighborhood restrictions).
Advantages Of Renting Through An App
While you could certainly go it alone, most people prefer to use one of the popular peer-to-peer storage apps to arrange their rentals. The top names in this niche include Neighbor, Stashii, Store At My House, and iStoreit. Operating through a peer-to-peer platform brings with it a number of safeguards. Renters are screened, insurance is provided, and you can get assistance with problems such as late payments. The transaction fees are modest, and well worth it for the streamlined process and turnkey benefits. These apps are becoming increasingly popular for renters as the cost is considerably less than traditional storage facilities.
How Much Money Can You Earn?
If you list a parking space for a car, RV, or boat, the earnings can be thousands of dollars over the course of a year. Even a smaller space rented by a student during summer break can net $50 or more per month. To get an idea of what the earning potential is for your space, check out the websites listed above to review ads for your area.
Helping you make the most of God���s money!
James L. Paris
Editor-In-Chief ChristianMoney.com
Follow Me on Twitter Twitter.com/jameslparis
Christian Financial Advice
Jim Paris 24 Hour Radio
How Criminals Can Steal Your Home Title Right Over The Internet
I have worked in the real estate industry on and off for many years, at one time I even was a partner in a real estate brokerage here in Florida. Despite my years of experience in real estate, I had never heard of ���home title fraud��� until recently. The most shocking aspect of this crime is how easy it is to pull off and how most victims don���t find out until it is too late.
Home title fraud occurs when a property deed is altered and the owner listed is changed to the name of the criminal. In many cases, this is carried out by first stealing the identity of the victim. Once the deed has been transferred, a new mortgage can be obtained. The owner finds out months later when they receive a foreclosure notice. Title insurance will not protect you since the deed is stolen after you purchased the property. Since most counties make available online document filing, a criminal can even steal your home title right over the Internet.
Who Is At Risk?
The scam targets primarily two groups ��� the elderly, and vacation home owners. The elderly are frequent victims because many times they have paid off homes. Second homes or vacation homes are also targeted because they are frequently empty, allowing the scammer physical access to the property and incoming mail. In another twist, criminals will search the obituaries to prey on properties of the recently deceased. While these are the primary targets, anyone can become a victim of these new and growing crime.
What Can You Do To Protect Yourself?
Many counties now make available free fraud alerts. Simply register your e mail address to be notified in real time of any legal filings containing your name. Pictured below is a screenshot from Davidson County (Nashville, TN) of their free alert service registration page.
Experts also suggest that you purchase an identity theft plan with monitoring so you will be alerted of any financial activity on your credit file. Other clues that something may be going on include not receiving your utility bills or beginning to receive another person���s mail at your address. Any notices or bills from a new mortgage you did not apply for is the most obvious of tip-offs.
Helping you make the most of God���s money!
James L. Paris
Editor-In-Chief ChristianMoney.com
Follow Me on Twitter Twitter.com/jameslparis
Christian Financial Advice
Jim Paris 24 Hour Radio
How Your Library Card Can Save You Thousands Of Dollars
One place you may not have been in a while is your local library, as many have been closed due to the pandemic. Libraries are making big changes these days, and it is all about transitioning to online content. If your local library has taken the leap into the digital world, you could save hundreds and maybe even thousands of dollars each year.
Your Library Card Is Worth Thousands Of Dollars
I live in a small town and our library is a little outdated. I made frequent trips to the library when my children were younger and needed access to resources for school projects. In recent years, I have not found the library to be of much value. As a writer and researcher, I spend thousands each year on books and audiobooks. My aversion to our local library is simply because I have not found much relevant and up-to-date resources on the shelves.
On a recent visit I learned about the new ���garden room��� that is set up almost like a Starbucks (bring your own coffee). But, I made an even more significant discovery when standing in line to check out a few books (yes, still some good older titles on the shelves). There were several brochures announcing new online services now available.
Although our library is small, they have affiliated with four online content providers. With just my library card, I can enroll in these services and tap into millions of resources. This includes eBooks, audiobooks, movies, music, newspapers, and magazines. You can even stream movies right on your TV!
Listed below are the four major services I have access to, your library may have even more. All I need is my library card and I can sign up and begin accessing content.
Take a minute to stop by your library to ask about online content. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at all that is available.
Helping you make the most of God���s money!
James L. Paris
Editor-In-Chief ChristianMoney.com
Follow Me on Twitter Twitter.com/jameslparis
Christian Financial Advice
Jim Paris 24 Hour Radio
10 Ways To Save On Summer Travel
#1 Consider Buying Two One-Way Tickets Instead Of A Round Trip
Google Flights includes a search for two one-way tickets in a standard search. I have used this strategy several times. It simply puts you on a different airline for your return trip. Most of the search platforms do not include this, that is why I use Google Flights. It is always worth comparing prices for one-way flights, especially on international travel.
#2 Check Several Departing And Returning Days In Your Airfare Scenario
Many of the major travel sites are beginning to offer this feature in their searches, but my favorite method is using the Google Flight calendar. See video below.
#3 Always Consider Multiple Departing And Arrival Airports
This has saved me so much money over the years. A couple of examples - We were flying our entire family from Dallas to Los Angeles and saved over one thousand dollars by departing from Houston (just a three hour drive). We booked round trip airfare to Italy for less than $500 each ticket by flying out of Miami instead of Orlando (saved $300 per person).
#4 Compare Single Hotel Night Rates Against Multiple Day Purchases
I learned this one by accident when my itinerary changed ��� I discovered that the one day rate was actually increased when I booked several days at the same hotel. What? I thought you get a discount when you make a larger purchase. So, I just booked multiple one day reservations instead of a single reservation for four days. This makes absolutely no sense, but I have experienced it multiple times.
#5 Always Compare Airbnb Rates To Hotels
One of the reasons I favor Booking.com for hotel shopping is that they automatically include Airbnb. Even though it is somewhat integrated, you will still find more options by searching at the Airbnb site directly. Airbnb offers a great deal of savings, especially if you are traveling with children and need a larger space. No matter the number of people in your group, it always makes sense to include Airbnb in your comparison.
#6 Use A Proxy Server Or Incognito Browser To Shop For Online Travel
Well, I did not believe this one until I tried it myself ��� it is true! You may see higher prices based simply on your location. The workaround for this is to use the ���incognito��� feature on the Chrome browser or a proxy server. Either way, once your location is hidden you may see different prices. This is not always the case, but often enough that it is worth trying.
#7 Shop Directly At The Airline Website Before Making The Final Purchase From A Travel Site
It is easier to shop directly at the big travel sites, but there are hidden savings to be uncovered by searching directly on airline websites. Hidden deals are common, especially with Southwest and JetBlue.
#8 Always Ask About Discounts If You Are An AARP Or AAA Member
Always ask about AAA and AARP discounts when booking a hotel or rental car. In fact, most people don���t know that both of these organizations have their own travel booking sites that incorporate the member savings. Discounts of an additional ten percent or more are common. In fact, anytime you are spending money you should ask about these discounts. Most people have no idea how ubiquitous these discounts are ��� even at restaurants and retailers in your own home town.
#9 Volunteer To Be Bumped From Your Flight For Free Airfare
This summer is expected to be an extremely busy travel season. As a result, airlines may be overbooked and looking for passengers to volunteer to be bumped. You will get another seat on a later flight and receive a travel credit that can be worth several hundred dollars. Some travelers even select the most popular flight itineraries for an increased chance of being bumped.
#10 Always Compare Offsite Rental Car Rates To Airport Location Rates
Rental cars are in short supply this summer, and rates will be higher than ever. This is why adding off-site rental agencies to your comparison list is a must. Even if you have to take an Uber across town, it could easily result in hundreds of dollars in savings.
Bonus Tip: Avoid Baggage Fees By Shipping Your Clothes Through The Mail Instead Of Checking Luggage
This is a great strategy, especially if you are visiting family. Save money and box up your clothes and other travel necessities and ship them by U.S. Mail. You also avoid the hassle of carrying your bags to the airport.
Helping you make the most of God���s money!
James L. Paris
Editor-In-Chief ChristianMoney.com
Follow Me on Twitter Twitter.com/jameslparis
Christian Financial Advice
Jim Paris 24 Hour Radio
Would You Put Ads On Your Car For $500 Per Month?
You are probably seeing more and more cars displaying ads. So called ���ad wraps��� are a popular way to turn any car or truck into a moving billboard. What you might not realize is that you can volunteer to have your car wrapped and get paid hundreds of dollars per month.
Avoid Advertising Wrap Scams
A word of warning ��� there are a lot of ad wrap scams to steer clear of. The key is to stick with established companies and never pay to join a program. If you are asked to pay anything to the wrap company, it should be an immediate red flag.
Major Ad Wrap Agencies
Requirements
Each company will have its own unique requirements such as minimum age, vehicle age, background checks, and minimum miles driven (and locations). Keep in mind that these companies are seeking vehicles in major cities that are in high-traffic locations. Those with the greatest chance of being selected are daily commuters in major cities. Experts suggest confirming that your auto insurance will not be affected by an ad wrap, and that your neighborhood has no restrictions on parking ad wrapped vehicles.
How Much Can You Earn?
The amount these agencies will pay can range from $150 to $500 per month. This could very well mean that your ad wrap income covers you entire car payment. If you own your car outright, this money can be used for investing or paying down debt.
Helping you make the most of God���s money!
James L. Paris
Editor-In-Chief ChristianMoney.com
Follow Me on Twitter Twitter.com/jameslparis
Christian Financial Advice
Jim Paris 24 Hour Radio
4 Ways Virtual Reality Can Save You Money
Not being a gamer, I am a little late to the world of virtual reality. I purchased the Oculus Quest 2 about ten days ago and have been amazed at all of the non-gaming features. As a financial writer, I thought I would approach my review from the perspective of saving money. Yes, VR can save you money ��� use the information below as your sales pitch to get your skeptical spouse on board!
Photo by Remy Gieling on Unsplash
1. Quit Your Gym
There are hundreds of fitness apps that can replace aerobic exercise classes. While I am not a gamer, the idea of boxing or sword fighting for thirty minutes in place of a cardio class at the gym sounds like a lot of fun. Many of the fitness apps are free, while others have a one time cost or modest monthly subscriptions. There are some very interesting options, such as live virtual workouts and exercise classes in exotic VR locations around the world. If you are not feeling it today, get motivated by doing your workout on a beach in Hawaii! Here is an article with more details on Oculus fitness apps.
2. Virtual Travel
In the last week I have virtually traveled to Tokyo, New York, Italy, Boston, and China ��� all from my couch. If you love to travel, you will quickly fall in love with this feature. Of course, presently with all of the Covid-19 restrictions, international travel is a major hassle. I think it is a stretch to claim that this would replace actual travel. But, it is an efficient way to preview hundreds of destinations before you spend your hard earned money on a vacation you may not like. Many travelers use YouTube to review potential travel destinations, but VR takes things to a new level. I mean, I actually took a gondola ride in Venice, Italy from my couch!
3. Skip The Movies
I have a large 4K TV but I still love that big screen movie theater experience. Most people do not know that Oculus has a virtual movie theater feature. This will absolutely blow your mind. You are transported to a beautiful movie theater with the perfect center seat, and you pick the movie. This feature links to Netflix and Amazon Prime. Once your accounts are connected, you can watch your movies and favorite TV shows in your own virtual theater.
4. Virtual Therapy
If you suffer from PTSD, anxiety, or just everyday stress, you will love the wide range of apps that help in treating these conditions. In fact, ���VR therapy��� is being used in medical settings to treat a wide array of psychological disorders, including phobias. Check out this article from Scientific American ��� Virtual Reality Might Be The Next Big Thing For Mental Health.
It took me a few hours to learn how to use the Oculus Quest 2, but now I can just slip it on and embark on my next adventure right away. I have yet to explore the ���social features��� of VR. You can get together with friends and family virtually to play chess, watch movies together, or host a party. Businesses are even conducting meetings and seminars now in VR!
One last point ��� I am blind in one eye and wondered if the headset would work for me. I assumed there might be issues, but it works perfectly. There is even a way to wear glasses with the VR headset.
Helping you make the most of God���s money!
James L. Paris
Editor-In-Chief ChristianMoney.com
Follow Me on Twitter Twitter.com/jameslparis
Christian Financial Advice
Jim Paris 24 Hour Radio
July 26, 2021
Chasing Cosby Author Nicole Weisensee Egan Joins Jim Paris Live
Chasing Cosby Author Nicole Weisensee Egan discusses the Bill Cosby case and how he was released from prison. The shocking details you won't hear anywhere else of how Cosby's wealth and fame apparently got him a backdoor deal. The one reporter that continues to cover the story, even after being threated with jail - Nicki Egan has the latest news on the Bill Cosby case and what happens next.
