Cyber Monday is around the corner. It is the biggest online shopping day of the year, the best time to get everything you want, especially if some of those items are pretty expensive otherwise. If you are looking for smart home devices to make your life easier, you are at the right place. Below, we have listed some of the best systems that may have discounts based on last year’s trends. Google smart speakers Google’s smart speakers have great sound and design. They are excellent companions who help you by listening to and following your voice commands. Like last year, you can expect Target to offer around a 40% discount on these. Google Smart Display Google is known for making various smart displays, some of them being pretty useful. The best models feature a seven-inch touchscreen, sunrise alarms, and gesture controls. Best Buy might sell these on Cyber Monday at outstandingly low prices. Amazon Echo Amazon Echo may be a perfect addition to your home. You can use it not only to play music and get the information you want but also to control appliances. It is one of the best smart home devices to buy if you have not yet done so. Amazon offers great discounts on nearly all its products, so look for the Echo. August Smart Locks If you feel your home needs a solid security lock, one of the August Smart Locks could be a great choice. They can be used with your Wi-Fi connection to monitor the activity of people entering your home through an app on your phone. You can also create virtual keys for specific guests for a particular period if you wish. The locks are easy to install and can connect with voice assistants. Arlo Security Cameras Whether you are in the kitchen or the bedroom, you can easily check who is visiting your home with the Arlo Security Camera.

Nothing is more satisfying than having one’s own comfortable space to return to at the end of the day. However, in today’s world, characterized by unprecedented population growth and rising real-estate prices, buying a home remains a distant dream for many. Furthermore, several individuals trying to buy homes are unprepared for certain challenges they may face. Keep reading to learn about common mistakes home buyers should avoid while investing in real estate. Exceeding one’s set budget limit Often, home buyers get carried away by the additional amenities and space offered by properties beyond their budget range and face the consequences of huge EMI installments later. While expensive houses may offer more facilities, home buyers must stick to their budget ranges for optimal financial planning and to avoid debt traps. Not being pre-approved Being pre-approved to buy a home can significantly boost one’s house hunt. It can help buyers understand what denomination of the total house price they can afford and to what extent they would require help. Buyers can also determine a budget range by getting pre-approval from mortgage lenders. This process helps them look for affordable homes and stay within their set limit. Thus, although a pre-approval is not a final mortgage approval, it gives buyers a sense of security and increases their appeal among sellers. Not consulting a reliable real-estate agent While it is possible to purchase a home without the help of a real estate agent, such agents are experts in the industry. They can provide buyers – particularly first-time buyers with little or no knowledge of home buying – with systematic guidance. Home buying is a life-changing decision; proper assistance can help one obtain the best deals on their dream house. However, it is important to find reliable real estate agents with considerable experience and relevant qualifications and those with positive reviews and word of mouth.

Trash bags are essential for collecting garbage and keeping it contained. They prevent waste from stinking up a place and causing health risks due to the accumulation of bacteria. That said, for trash bags to contain waste and keep it from spilling and leaking through, they must be of the proper size and correctly line the garbage bin. Here are a few mistakes to avoid that can cause trash bags to cave in and cause seepage: 1. Using flimsy trash bags Buying flimsy garbage bags is one of the most common mistakes people make. While these might be more affordable, they can tear at the slightest pressure. If this happens, one will be left with a big mess at the bottom of the bin that they will have to clean up. Instead, one should use heavy-duty alternatives, like thick outdoor trash bags. They can hold more weight, are durable, and will not tear easily. 2. Using small bags Many individuals use small garbage bags that just about fit a trash can. While this ensures a snug fit, the trash bag may not be sufficient to handle all the waste one needs to dispose of. Furthermore, it might be difficult for one to seal the bag when it needs to be disposed of. As a workaround, one must use large or extra-large garbage bags, even if they have a smaller trash can. Apart from ensuring more waste is secured in the bags, closing them will also be easier. Moreover, buying larger bags could help cut costs, as one can use disposable products for longer. 3. Picking non-tie options In an attempt to save money, homeowners may buy garbage bags that have no ties. While this could save them a few dollars, the lack of a tie will make it much harder to seal the bag after dumping trash into it.

Home security systems have seen significant price drops every Black Friday. Year after year, homeowners have benefited from discounts and promotions on various security products. Whether buyers are looking for surveillance cameras, smart locks, or alarm systems, investing in advanced protection systems is an excellent opportunity. Here’s a list of some home security gear that did well last year and is expected to have deals during Black Friday 2023. 1. Security cameras and surveillance There is a difference between security cameras and surveillance cameras. Security cameras are meant to be a deterrent to prevent break-ins, robberies, and other potential criminal activities. Meanwhile, the purpose of surveillance cameras is to monitor spaces within and outside. These cameras are usually hidden, while security cameras can be easily seen. Therefore, one must know what kind of protection they need for their homes. Both surveillance and security cameras have their prices slashed during the sale period. Knowing the type of cameras needed helps find deals quickly before they go out of stock. 2. Smart doorbells A smart doorbell camera lets a homeowner see and hear who is on the other side of the door, even when the homeowner is not home. These smart devices are usually Internet-enabled and connected to a smartphone app. A single device includes a camera, doorbell, microphone, and doorbell function. Most doorbells cost $150 or less, but high-end models with advanced motion sensing and facial recognition have price tags above $200 .  Last year, shoppers bought smart doorbell cameras at significant price cuts of almost $100 from big retailers like Amazon. 3. Smart door locks With a smart lock, one can ditch their keys to conveniently and safely manage the locking system of their home, even when they are away. These locks are remotely controlled through iOS and Android apps installed on mobile devices.

It is a well-known fact that veterans enjoy financial assistance for education and healthcare through the Department of Veterans Affairs. However, these are not the only benefits they are entitled to. Veterans can also opt for other programs to save money and maintain an ideal lifestyle. Sadly, not many are up to date with these additional perks, causing them to miss out. Here are some of the lesser-known veteran benefits to consider. Long-term health care Long-term care can be pretty expensive. Still, many only save for it once it becomes a total necessity. While most veterans understand the basic health care they are entitled to, long-term care assistance is a lesser-known but equally crucial benefit they can access. Several programs help veterans lower their overall expenditure whenever they need continuous support. Some long-term care services offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) include the following: Home health care and adult day care:  The VA provides home health services to veterans who want to stay home while recovering. These services include nursing care, physical therapy, and assistance with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal preparations. In addition, veterans have access to adult day healthcare services if they require care only during the day. These services include assistance with social activities, companionship, and essential health services. Respite care: Looking after a loved one can be rewarding yet overwhelming. If a veteran’s caregiver needs temporary breaks, they can seek the VA’s respite care services. These services are available at home, local VA community living centers, and adult day healthcare centers. Hospice care:  The VA provides hospice care services to veterans with terminal health conditions. These services focus on pain management, emotional support, and assistance to enhance the quality of life. Nursing home care:  VA nursing homes and state veterans homes look after veterans with complex healthcare requirements.

Buying new home appliances can be a challenging task. Whether one is upgrading their kitchen with a new refrigerator, purchasing a high-efficiency washer and dryer, or seeking the latest in smart home technology, they may feel slightly overwhelmed due to the wide array of choices. As a result, one may make certain mistakes during the purchase, which can lead to regrets. Here are some common mistakes that one must avoid when buying new appliances: 1. Forgetting to measure the space One of the most common mistakes individuals can make, which may cost them dearly, is not measuring their space before purchasing an appliance. Whether one is purchasing a new refrigerator, an oven, or a washer, it is absolutely important to take accurate measurements of the space they are planning to place the appliance in and purchase the appliance of a size that fits there. Failing to take these measurements can lead to purchasing appliances that do not fit in the space or obstruct other room elements. Hence, before browsing different options, it is important to measure the available space, including the height, width, and depth, to ensure a perfect fit. 2. Neglecting research Shopping around and doing research is an important step that one must not neglect when purchasing home appliances. Whichever appliance one decides to purchase, it is important to check different options for it, including variants from different brands and different marketplaces. One can also ask for suggestions from their friends and family and research the recommendations they get. Once they have a few reliable options, one can also compare those options for features and pricing to ensure they are selecting the best. Moreover, researching the best available options also helps one understand the current market price of the appliance and set their budget accordingly. 3. Failing to budget Not setting a budget before purchasing home appliances can be a costly mistake.

Besides ensuring hygienic living conditions, a clean home is essential to facilitate a sense of peace and calm and prevent chaos. While home cleaning is often considered tiresome, it can be a fun group activity when all the inhabitants of a home collaborate in the process. Moreover, using the right cleaning products can ensure hassle-free and efficient cleaning and reduce manual effort. Following are some must-have cleaning products that can make life easy for homeowners: Microfiber cloths Microfiber cloths contain several positively charged polyester fibers and negatively charged nylon fibers, which help collect grease, grime, dust, and bacteria. Moreover, they are easier to clean than sponges and paper towels, facilitating better hygiene. Stacking up these microfiber cloths separately in a dedicated space is advisable so that they do not accumulate dust. Extendable microfiber duster Cleaning higher surfaces can be challenging, often requiring one to climb on stools or chairs. However, extendable microfiber dusters significantly reduce one’s effort in the process. These microfiber dusters can reach significant heights, such as fan blades and the tops of wardrobes, and ensure thorough dusting. All-purpose cleaner All-purpose cleaners are go-to cleaning products to clean multiple surfaces and areas, including furniture, bathroom, kitchen, and floors, and ensure a tidy home. Although specific cleaners should also be a part of one’s cleaning kit, it is not always possible to carry out extensive cleaning. Moreover, an all-purpose cleaner comes in handy when any cleaning product gets over, and the surface remains to be cleaned. Collapsible bucket These buckets are spacious when one requires them for cleaning and space-efficient when not in use. Collapsible buckets may be tucked away in a corner and can help one utilize space, especially in smaller homes. Baking soda This product is not only useful in fluffing up one’s cakes and pastries but also in facilitating a spick-and-span home.

One may need money for various reasons, whether it is for funding further education costs, buying a new house, or starting up a new business. A steady income may cover most of one’s regular expenses, but major purchases or emergencies may require one to borrow funds. The banks and federal organizations offer many options for people to borrow money with varying interest rates and repayment schedules. Read on to understand the common types of loans. Personal loans Personal finance is a versatile option that can help fulfill various needs. It can be availed to cover expenses like emergency bills, vacation, medical treatment, relocation to a different city, home renovation, wedding, or buying expensive electronics like tablets, computers, washers, and refrigerators. Usually, the repayment period can range from a few months up to a couple of years and the interest rate can either be fixed or variable, depending on the preference of the borrower. One can apply for personal loans via a bank or an online lender. One can choose between a secured and unsecured personal loan . In case of a secured loan, the borrower needs to provide a collateral that can back it up. This collateral can be any valuable, such as a vehicle, savings account, life insurance policy, or gold, which acts as a type of security for the lender who can claim it if the borrower fails to repay the loan amount. Secured loans are relatively cheaper than unsecured ones as the lender has a collateral backing. Alternatively, unsecured loans don’t need any collateral and are also known as signature loans since the lender does not have any security of the loan except the borrower’s signature. Unsecured loans are more convenient and quicker than secured ones, but they also tend to be costlier or have higher interest rates.

Black Friday, the biggest sales extravaganza, is about to arrive! For all the fitness-conscious, the sale and the discounts on fitness equipment are much-awaited. Below are a few deals, discounts, and price drops available last year that will help you determine this year’s trend, although significant discounts on various fitness equipment are expected. So, stay fit and healthy, and check out some fantastic offers you must not miss this Black Friday. Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells The deals offered last year on dumbbells might interest you. You could get the Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells (adjustable) for just $299 and opt for free shipping. Bowflex and Nautilus You could also avail of up to 30% off on Bowflex and Nautilus exercise equipment, with free shipping. Tempo Fit Studio You might be able to save up to $500 at Tempo Fit Studio. Bowflex BXT6 treadmill If you’re looking for treadmills, don’t miss out on the deals offered on the Bowflex BXT6 Treadmill. Schwinn 270 exercise bikes Schwinn 270 exercise bikes (Recumbent) could be available for $599.99, a price drop of $200. It is a user-friendly machine with adjustable resistance and seating. You can customize it to your fitness level and strength, and it is offered along with the companion app. Bowflex elliptical trainers You might get up to $450 off and free shipping on Bowflex elliptical trainers. You can also avail up to 50% off elliptical trainers from a few other fitness brands. So ensure you compare prices to make the most of the offered deals. Bowflex home gym equipment Are you planning on setting up your home fitness gym? Then the home gym equipment from Bowflex is what you need, up to $400 off – a great offer last year. Bowflex C6 bike Another great deal that could also be offered from Bowflex and includes free shipping might be on the C6 Bike.

Vacuum cleaners are one of the most reliable home cleaning appliances. With the help of the machine, cordless or corded, one can get rid of dirt, cobwebs, and allergens found around the house. The device is used for cleaning purposes, therefore, it is vital to handle the vacuum cleaner correctly for optimal usage. That said, not everyone knows how to use a vacuum cleaner efficiently. Below are the common mistakes made while using them: Failing to empty or clean dust bags and filters It is important to empty and clean vacuum dust bags regularly. Failing to do so can affect the efficiency of the vacuum cleaner. Despite vacuuming, if you still notice dust stains on the carpet or the floor, it’s an indicator to empty the dust bag. Another tell-tale sign for the removal of dust bag is when your vacuum cleaner seems to be losing its suction power. The frequency of emptying the vacuum bags will depend on how often you use the device. A full vacuum dust bag will lead to an accumulation of dust and the breeding of bacteria and germs in the bag. Many latest models are equipped with disposable bags that are much more convenient. You need not waste time and energy emptying or cleaning the dust bags.  Similar to dust bags, vacuum filters also need to be cleaned on a regular basis. While some models will have washable filters, others may have disposable ones. You will also need to pull out hair or thin strings from the brush rolls at intervals. Using the wrong attachments Every vacuum cleaner comes with multiple attachments designed for a different purpose. If you keep using one or two attachments to clean everything, you are not fully utilizing its available functions. Usually, there will be two different brushes or tools for various surfaces – hard floors, upholstery and carpets.

Treating several respiratory illnesses such as asthma, the common cold, and those due to allergy reactions involve preventing triggers of the symptoms. Most people assume they must take precautions only when they head outside. Although it is essential to mask up and avoid pollutants, smoke, and particulate matter outdoors, it is equally crucial to be wary of potential symptom triggers indoors as well. Here we’ve discussed some hotspots for respiratory problems and how to tackle them. Doorknobs and drawer and appliance handles The handles of drawers, appliances, and doorknobs in any home or office are some of the most touched surfaces, as everyone comes in contact with these. As a result, they are one of the biggest hotspots for respiratory illnesses. They can quickly spread contagious germs such as viruses, bacteria, etc. What you can do Although it is impossible to completely cut off contact with these surfaces, cleaning them with disinfectants is recommended. Electronic keypads and keyboards Electronic keypads and keyboards can have 400 times more germs than an average toilet seat. This is because these are in constant contact with our hands, which are the biggest carriers of germs unless we sanitize them regularly. Moreover, many people drink and eat at their desks as they work. The debris and residue on the keyboards encourage fungi, viruses, and bacteria. What you can do Wiping the keyboards and keypads with disinfectant daily will help prevent them from becoming hotspots for respiratory illnesses. Also, you can use a keyboard cleaner to eliminate any debris that might be stuck between the keys. Shared glassware, dishes, and utensils It is common practice for many people to share glassware, dishes, or even spoons at home or in the office. If you want to avoid a nasty respiratory illness, it is best to avoid this practice altogether, as it is the easiest way for germs to spread and make you sick.

As the holiday season draws near, many shoppers search for the finest bargains on appliances to enhance their homes. Similarly, Black Friday sales feature significant discounts on everything, from cutting-edge refrigerators to high-powered cooking ranges. However, specific categories of appliances are more in demand than others, and these products are offered mainly at unbeatable prices. Here are a few of the top appliances in demand for this year’s Black Friday. Refrigerators Wayfair, Home Depot, and Amazon offer significant discounts on high-priced items. In the previous year, customers could save nearly $1,000 on top-brand refrigerators. Top-freezer refrigerators: This classic style of refrigerator is commonly preferred by consumers. It’s a perfect no-frills option for those looking for a basic fridge. Bottom-freezer refrigerators: Adding a bottom-freezer refrigerator to the kitchen can be a convenient choice, regardless of the size or style. Unlike top freezer refrigerators that keep frozen foods at eye level, bottom freezer refrigerators are perfect for those who mainly cook with fresh ingredients. Additionally, they are more affordable than other options, and with Black Friday sales, the prices are even more reduced. Side-by-side refrigerators give easy access to the freezer and fridge. Moreover, the doors of these refrigerators are narrower compared to others. These are suitable for kitchens with space constraints. Vacuum cleaners From premium models to budget ones, vacuum cleaners of every price range go on sale during the Thanksgiving sale period. Last year saw significant retailers offering steep discounts on different types of vacuum cleaners. For example, Target offered a massive 50% off on original retail prices. These included robot, handheld, and upright vacuums from top-selling brands. Washers & dryers Many major stores such as Best Buy, The Home Depot, and Lowe’s have offered incredible deals on washers and dryers, usually pricier during the non-sale period. In previous years, the discounts ranged from 30% to a massive 55% on these popular types of washers and dryers.