Watch Out for These 3 Real Estate Scams and How to Avoid Them

A golden rule when it comes to real estate is that if a deal sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. Getting involved in real estate is rewarding and financially life-changing, but it can also be downright scary. Unfortunately, like any other industry, real estate has its fair share of scammers hoping to con any individual with their hard-earned money.

However, these criminals are getting more creative with how they can track their targets. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center data, more than 13,600 victims have reported instances of rental or real estate fraud in 2020 alone.

Fortunately, we present you with these three (3) types of real estate scams and how to avoid them.

The Wire Fraud

This type of scam commonly happens when you are about to close a deal on your new home. Then, an email will arrive with all the correct information about the title of the house and instructions on how you can wire the cash to an account from a distant bank. But, unfortunately, the bank account probably belongs to the scammers who also hacked your title information.

The scammers set up fake websites very similar to the original title or lending company you are working with to make it look real. They also use spoofing techniques to make the websites, email addresses, and phone numbers look familiar. However, there is an off letter or number. Some red flags you should be aware of about the wire fraud scam are:

Spelling errors in the email they sent or other messaging systems
Hasty changes to the terms and conditions of the housing contract
Their presentation of decisions have strict deadlines
Refusal to seek a translator or speak on a call

When you fall for the wire fraud, you will not only be out of your money but also your home. To avoid this, always check the original documents you received from your lender before sending any money. Call their listed phone numbers and verify from a live person the wiring instructions you just received. Always be wary of the changes in your wiring instructions.

Foreclosure Relief

This type of scam typically starts when homeowners are having difficulty and are behind on their mortgage payments. When this happens, homeowners are usually desperate to save their homes. Then, this is the perfect time where the scammers who have access to public records of homes in pre-foreclosure swoops in and offer foreclosure relief.

Foreclosure relief capitalizes on the vulnerability of the homeowners. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), some fraudsters claim that they are with the government or government housing assistance programs. They swindle hundreds if not thousands of dollars from homeowners through fees.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, foreclosure scams are rising in numbers. Even though various government bodies and numerous banks are working to address this issue and help distressed borrowers, many criminals are still capitalizing on the homeowners’ fears. One huge red flag you should be aware of this scam is when the scammer will tell you not to talk with your lender.

To avoid this, you can work with your loan servicer to request forbearance, modify your existing loan, and make other necessary arrangements. You can also enlist help from the HUD-accredited housing counselor to know the available options you can take. In addition, include the counselor with the three-way call with your lender to develop viable solutions.

“We Buy Homes” Scams

The “We Buy Home” scams also target families who are struggling with their mortgage payments. The usual scenario is that scammers will post signs, ads and send postcards stating, “We Buy Homes!” The target doesn’t know that when they respond to the ad or mailer, the scammer will not buy the house but instead convince you to sign over the control of your house.

When that happens, the scammer company will lease the property to a new tenant. This way, the original homeowner will lose the right to their house, but they are still responsible for making the mortgage payments.

Moreover, this scam can also target tenants and homebuyers, not just homeowners. They can lure you with the ads stating rent-to-own agreements, but in the end, it’s highly deceptive and involves hefty upfront fees.

To avoid Scams from ‘We Buy Houses’ companies, remember the following before replying to their ads:

Beware and be wary of anyone who asks you to turn over the title of your house with the pretense that they need it to sell your property.
If you are struggling with your mortgage payments, speak directly with your lender.
Suppose you are searching for a house to buy or rent, never pay before signing a leasing contract. It would be better if you work with leasing or a real estate agent you trust.

The Bottom Line

When you search for a house to buy or rent, the last thing you want is to worry about scammers. Large cities like Los Angeles, California, the second-largest city in the US with various opportunities and beautiful sceneries, make people drawn to it. However, this also makes it a hot spot for scammers and other criminals alike.

Hopefully, the following types of scams mentioned above will help you know what to avoid and how to avoid them. In addition, real estate scams can be financially devastating, which is why you should always proceed with caution when you sell, buy, or rent a house.

Buying a Monitor: Which Screen Resolution Should You Pick?

A monitor is an essential part of a computer. It is a tool where we see all the executions we apply to do certain tasks that could be for personal purposes, for gaming, for a job, business, project, and many more. Thus, it is an important consideration as well to choose and use a high-quality monitor. One key feature is the screen resolution of a monitor; the higher the resolution of a monitor, the more pixel it has. This will enable you to view what you are working on more clearly.

If you are currently planning to get a monitor for whatever purpose you have in mind, ensure to get a monitor that fits your standards and needs. To further guide you with that matter, here’s a thorough comparison between the most ideal screen resolutions for a monitor.

1080p screen resolution

Let’s start with 1080p- resolution. This is also known as FHD or Full HD. Before the advancements took place and made another level of screen resolutions, this has been what we are using. Thus, although this hasn’t been very popular in the present time, it has helped many people conduct their computer-related tasks. This screen resolution works best for 24-inch to 32-inch monitors. So, if you haven’t joined the trend of getting much larger screens, this resolution would still work.

1440p screen resolution

This second option of a screen resolution we have here is 1440p, also known as QHD or Quad HD resolution. This screen resolution is often used for gaming monitors and even on high-end phones. Aside from that, it is commonly chosen by users as it has powerful hardware but at an affordable price. So, if you are looking for an affordable yet can sustain basic purposes, this would be a good choice.

4K screen resolution

Let’s move forward on the newer and advanced options. The 4K screen resolution is considered as the real successor of the 1080p. It is four times the resolution of a Full HD which will allow you to enjoy 3840×2160 images. Images will definitely look realistic and not pixelated, even on massive monitor screens. If you’re a graphic artist or currently in a job connected to photography or designing, you might consider getting this one.

8K screen resolution

Last but definitely not least, the most advanced option among them all. The 8K screen resolution obtains four times more pixels compared to a 4K TV. Can you imagine how crisp that is? When you opt for this option, you can totally expect a sharper and more detailed quality of an image, video, or anything that can be seen on the monitor.

Final Words

All of the options we’ve discussed above are ideal and can enable you to perform intended tasks. It all just depends on the quality you are expecting. For a more in-depth understanding, though, you should check out more differences between 1080p, 1440p, 4K, and 8K.

The decision-making all comes down to your standards, purpose, needs, and of course, budget. The higher screen resolution you opt for, the more pricey it is. So, select what you think is practical based on what you really need.

Are LED Display Technologies The Future Of Advertising?

LEDs are the most energy efficient technology acting as a foundation to broaden innovation in existing technologies. Display advertising is one such sector where it is revolutionizing the advertising landscape. There are a number of different types of outdoor display technologies available, and each has its own specific benefits. So it is important for retailers to consider which one is best for their specific business.

Once you have decided on outdoor display technology, there are a few things you need to take into account. Create a marketing plan that will target potential customers and promote your products or service in the most effective way possible.

The outdoor advertising industry is still running, with more and more innovative solutions being offered by advertising companies.“LED displays provide a remarkable representation of the brand’s message. Accompanied with vibrant graphics, this advertising medium is a favorable choice among our customers,” says Gevorg Hambardzumyan, the CEO of Front Signs, a renowned manufacturer of light box signs in Los Angeles and across the US.

Not only are they cost-effective and environmentally friendly, but they also provide a high degree of transparency and engagement with customers. If you’re also looking to move away from traditional methods of advertising and take your business to the next level, incorporating the visual display technologies into your strategy might be the right step for you.

Display Advertising Overview

Display advertising started with large display forms such as billboards, interactive displays, and cinema ads and it stepped over into more dynamic formats such as LED display ads, interactive kiosks, and digital billboards.

In recent years with the introduction of innovative technology, display advertising has become much more customer-oriented. Acting on the behavior, demographic and mood of the view. Among the main benefits of using display advertising is to boost visibility and build a stronger customer relationship. By crafting effective campaigns that target key demographics, interests, and locations, brands can achieve strong results while also maintaining a positive reputation. It also improves brand awareness and enhances familiarity which leads to increase in the number of sales and profits.

Present Market Share of LED Display Advertising

According to a report published on Global news wire, the global LED display market is valued at $6,3983.30 million in 2020 and is anticipated to reach $14,522.40 million by 2030 with a CAGR of 9.10 %.

Advantages Of Outdoor Display Advertising

When it comes to outdoor display advertising, there are many benefits that can be attained. Not only does it provide an inexpensive and effective means of reaching a large audience, but it can also help promote brands and products.

Here are just a few of the benefits of using outdoor display advertising-

1. Affordable

The cost of outdoor display advertising depends inherently on display location, format, demand. Digital billboards and transit ads are the most demandable mediums of ads. This makes it an ideal solution for companies that want to reach a wide audience without breaking the bank.

2. Increase Sales

Not only does the visual display provide leads in terms of quality foot traffic but it also generates sales. Right from building awareness to generating sales, display ads are a powerful marketing tool. It can engage customers and inspire them to take action by creating a stronger impression in their minds which can lead to increased sales.

3. Boost Brand Awareness

By constantly displaying the ads combined with right placement, businesses can greatly amplify brand awareness. There are many formats that can fit into the marketing strategy.

By using outdoor display advertising, you can reach potential customers who are walking or driving by your business, and you won’t have to spend as much money on marketing as you would if you were targeting people who are inside your building.

Why are LED Display Advertising the Ideal Return on Investment?

LED displays are an attractive advertising option due to their high resolution, wide reach, and immersive experience. One of the most important factors to consider when making a decision about a display is the return on investment (ROI). And the cost pertaining to this form of advertising could be a major factor.

Innovation in LED Display Advertising

With the ever-growing popularity of digital displays in the advertising world, it’s no wonder there’s been so much innovation in this field. Today, we’ll take a look at some of the more recent advances, and see how they are helping to shape the future of display advertising.

Virtual Reality(VR): The advent of Virtual reality has expanded the prospect of digital displays in advertising and other sectors. VR allows users to explore products and services in a completely new way and can be incredibly effective in engaging customers. By allowing users to experience products firsthand, VR can help businesses to attract new customers and generate increased sales.

Augmented Reality(AR): Another important innovation in LED display advertising is the use of augmented reality (AR). AR allows businesses to create custom ads that are integrated into real-world environments. This allows businesses to target specific customers with tailored ads, which can be very effective in driving conversions.

Finally, another major innovation in display technology is the use of digital signage. Digital signage is a type of advertising that uses LED displays to provide information or entertainment while a business is open. The displays can be used to create virtual billboards, digital displays that display information in the background, or videos that are played on the screen.

The Scope of Display Advertising Technology in Future

Display advertising technology has come a long way since its inception. In the past, display ads were limited to small text and graphics that were difficult to read. However, today’s display ad technology is much more sophisticated and allows for larger images and formats.

Additionally, display advertising technology is now able to target specific demographics, interests, and behaviors. This means that advertisers can reach their target audiences more effectively than ever before.

The scope of display advertising technology in the future is vast as it encompasses a number of different platforms to track user behavior in order to create more customized ads. Additionally, it will become even more contextual and interactive in order to better match the interests of users.

Conclusion

The future of advertising is looking bright, thanks to the ever-growing use of LED display technologies. Not only do these displays offer a more immersive experience for consumers, but they are also more environmentally friendly than traditional advertising methods.

What Does A Contract Lawyer Do?

A contract is a legal agreement that binds two or more parties to a certain arrangement. In both personal and professional activities, contracts may arise. Therefore it’s essential to complete them properly. If you require a contract, you might want to hire a contract attorney to speed up the procedure.

What do contract attorneys do?

A contract lays out legal-enforceable duties between the parties. You may safeguard your interests and guarantee the objective of any contracts you engage in by working with a contract lawyer to ensure that they are implemented correctly. They have in-depth knowledge of the state legislation that applies to these projects and contractual concerns.

Contract lawyers focuses on one particular topic, like:

Sales contracts
Contract analysis
Licensing
Contracts involving intellectual property
Tax agreements

You might engage a lawyer for many duties relating to company contracts. They might assist with:

Creating new agreements
Examining agreements before the parties sign
Assessing signed agreements in the event of a disagreement
Helping with situations regarding contract violations

How can I tell whether I require a lawyer?

Legal contracts may necessitate exact phrasing and formatting to be enforceable.

Your paperwork will be valid, acceptable in court, and error-free if you work with a contract lawyer. You might want to hire a lawyer, to evaluate the paper if not create it if you’re creating any legal documentation. They can also offer advice if you want to terminate a contract or suspect someone has violated one you have engaged into.

You’ll probably have to look for another lawyer who focuses on litigation if you have to go to court.

What does a contract attorney examine?

A contract attorney will thoroughly review every detail of your contract. They will consider several important factors, including the following, whether you’re creating a new agreement and seeking advice before signing it or assessing an existing deal:

Key terminologies

The fundamental terms of the contract are known as the essential terms. These conditions outline what is expected of each party and, thus, what will be considered a contract violation.

Provisions

More clauses in a contract that gives added safety for the parties and additional explanation on certain areas are known as provisions. Typically, provisions are formulaic additions that outline who will cover legal expenses in a lawsuit, where the contract will be filed, and how the entities will exchange contract notices.

Compliance with local laws

A contract must respect all local rules and regulations in a given area. Beginning with a draft contract you found on the web or another source may require major changes to conform to your state’s requirements.

Why should you hire a contract attorney?

A client may choose a contract lawyer for a variety of clear reasons. Any time contractual paperwork is required, this kind of expert offers a host of advantages.

The following are some things your competent contract attorney will be capable of accomplishing.

Effortless business relationships

Although using an agreement for a legal contract is quite common, it’s still crucial to ensure that none of the parties involved would find the terms offensive.

The parties involved can be kept apart from the contract by having a contract lawyer handle most of the drafting and execution. The attorney provides a degree of objectivity that other parties might not be able to.

2. Include the most recent laws

State laws and business rules are always evolving. If you wouldn’t make keeping up with these trends your full-time job, it might be challenging to stay current.

3. Close any conceivable gaps

A contract’s weaknesses might expose one party to obligations, whether deliberate or unintentional. A contract serves as protection for you or your company. This agreement will be appropriately executed thanks to the assistance of an expert contract lawyer.

4. Assure of the best conditions

Any contract attorney representing you will look for the finest conditions for you because of their client. Being aware of the standard terminology used in a given business is crucial since doing so will help you negotiate a deal with lower costs.

Over to you

Finding the right lawyer for the job will make your task simpler and help assure the success of your business endeavors, whether you need aid understanding what contracts you need to establish a firm or you’re getting help with a breach of contract lawsuit.

What Does A Business Lawyer Do?

The definition of business has changed in the last few years. As a business owner, you have to only deal with your product and customers. But this is not the case in today’s time. If you are running a business, there are so many other aspects that you must look at. Moreover, one of the important aspects of the business in today’s time is the law. As a business owner in San Jose , you need to do so much legal work. However, it is not possible to handle legal work and business at the same time.

Sometimes you may fall into trouble because of your product or service. At such times you need a strong party to represent your business. Moreover, in such cases, your business reputation is at stake. Apart from cases, it would help if you took so many clearances to run your business, including legal work.

If you are running a business in this modern age, having an expert legal team is essential. This team will help you with all legal work; moreover, they will represent you in court in all legal cases.

What is a business lawyer?

A business lawyer is a law professional who works on matters that affect businesses, such as tax, business dealings, and intellectual property. They are also referred to as corporate lawyers, corporate attorneys, or commercial lawyers.

How a business lawyer help you?

Business runs with the help of so many people. Moreover, you cannot run your business individually. You may handle other issues, but it is not easy to handle legal proceedings. Below you will get to know the role of a lawyer in the business and why you need a lawyer for your business.

Make business contracts

If you are running a big business, you may have to deal with many contracts. Apart from that, while dealing with others, you need contracts so that you will not get into trouble in the future. A law firm with an expert team of lawyers will help you in making contracts. Moreover, legal contracts are an essential part of the business. You cannot run your business without a legal contract.

2. Defend in cases against a business

Running a business is not an easy task. Sometimes with your product or service, someone gets hurt, or the customer is not satisfied. If someone dragged you into a court, you need a team of expert lawyers who will defend your business in the court. After all, it is about your business reputation, and you cannot compromise it. Get the best law firm that will give you the best defense team to handle the cases.

3. Matters of merger and acquisition

While merging with other businesses or acquiring, you need a team of expert lawyers who will deal at such a time. Moreover, if you are planning to expand your business and looking for an acquisition, then having a business law firm is very essential. There is so much paperwork, and a lawyer will help you in this process.

4. Corporate governance

Lawyers have a varied role in business in today’s time. Moreover, corporate governance is also one of the important roles. It is not easy to run a business, especially when thousands of people work in your business. A business lawyer will help you in making guidelines and directives for your business. Moreover, you will get to know your rights and responsibilities as a business.

When running a business of any size, choosing the best law firm is a tough task as there are so many business law firms in the market. Every firm claims that they have the best team of lawyers. Moreover, it would help if you had a law firm that would give you the best service with experts who can understand your business. Hiring a good San Jose business law firm is one of the best decisions, after learning about their track records and success stories.

Conclusion

WIth a reputed law firm, there will be a team of expert lawyers who have been handling business-related cases and other issues for years. Taking assistance from a law firm that can help you in all the legal aspects of your business because lawyers play a very pivotal role in your business. Without the best legal team, you cannot run a marathon in the business world. When you want great success, delegating legal matters to a law firm is a wise decision.

How Can SEO Improve SaaS Customer Engagement?

Online marketing is crucial in customer relations, which is why SEO is essential for SaaS businesses. Companies that want to improve customer relations must focus more on their SEO efforts.

SaaS companies use SEO to improve customer engagement by increasing their organic traffic. Learn how you can enhance SaaS customer engagement below.

Appear in Search Results

Search engine optimization improves SaaS customer engagement by appearing in search results. As a result, your company will be visible in search engine results when potential customers are looking for solutions to their problems. Engaging SaaS customers is the key to your business’s success.

SEO also helps SaaS customers find you when they do a Google search, which allows them to engage with your product. If you’re not showing up in Google searches, then you’re missing out on potential business opportunities.

In Google search results, it increases the likelihood that visitors will click on your website link. Moreover, search engine optimization facilitates customer engagement for SaaS businesses.

Increase Traffic to the Website

Increased traffic to your website can help you improve the number of signups and sales. It also allows you to grow your customer base and increase your revenue.

You can also increase the number of people who see your website through search engine results with the help of SaaS SEO services. Whenever people search for keywords associated with your product, search engines find it, which leads to more sales for your business.

The more optimized your content is, the easier it is for people to find what they’re looking for on your site. As a result, your visitors spend less time finding what they need, encouraging them to stay on your site.

Improve Brand Awareness

SEO improves brand awareness by helping you build a strong web presence. People searching for your product and service are more likely to find your site, which leads them to a buy decision.

Traffic to your website increases your chances of people seeing your ads. As a result, the number of clicks and interactions with ads increases, which in turn improves customer engagement.

SEO also improves customer engagement by allowing you to reach customers with specific interests and needs. For example, if you have an ad that only appears when someone searches for “how do I use [product name]?”. Then you know that this person has an interest in using your product.

Build Trust and Credibility

SaaS customers build trust and credibility through search engine optimization. You will rank higher in search engines such as Google, Bing, and Yahoo with SEO when customers find your website through these search engines. Your credibility and information about your services will show them that you are a credible company. Taking this step will make your brand more appealing to them.

Build Authority and Thought Leadership

You can build authority by appearing near the top search results for keywords related to your business and services. As a result, ranking on Google increases your chances of converting prospects into customers.

As a thought leader, you must have a distinct point of view on issues in your industry and be willing to share them. When you answer potential customers’ questions about how to use your products, you build trust and create content that solves their problems. It also gives them helpful advice and offers insights into industry trends.

Gain a Competitive Edge in Your Industry

A company’s online presence would not be complete without SEO, which improves customer engagement, increases traffic, and increases conversions. As a result, you can gain a competitive advantage in your field of business.

The art of SEO is to ensure your website appears when people search for your products or services. It can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to staying on top of the competition. Check out these 9 SEO Strategies That Can Give You An Advantage Over Your Competition. Then, do everything you can to rank higher than your competitors.

Increase Shares via Social Media Channels

SEO can help increase the number of shares your SaaS company receives on social media channels. It leads to more user engagement and better SEO rankings.

By getting more people to share your content, you’ll get more views and, thus, more traffic. Increased traffic leads to increased customer engagement, leading to more conversions.

Improve Customer Satisfaction and Engagement

If you’re a SaaS company, SEO can help you understand your target audience’s questions and how they’re trying to find answers. It will help you create more compelling content that addresses those questions, leading to more organic traffic and better engagement.

Another way SEO improves customer engagement is by enhancing the user experience. When your site ranks well in search engines, people looking for information on your niche will find it quickly and easily. It can lead to more visitors ready to engage with your brand immediately—and stay involved for extended periods.

Reduce the Cost of Marketing

By improving your SEO, you can also reduce the cost of marketing. Increase the number of people who find your website through organic search rather than paid advertisements. You’ll spend less money on advertising and more time increasing sales opportunities.

The most expensive part of any marketing campaign is getting your target audience to notice it. It’s that simple. SEO works so well for SaaS companies because it’s a way to reduce the cost of getting people to see your ad or message.

If you’re a SaaS company, you know how important it is to keep costs down and satisfy your customers. The time is now to start using SEO if you haven’t already!

Improve Your Customer Engagement!

You should treat your customers with care and respect. SEO plays a vital role in optimizing your customer engagement. So you must install the latest trends into your marketing strategy. Using SEO can improve your website’s performance and keep visitors engaged with your brand.

Reasons Why Branding Is Important To Your eCommerce Business

Online branding, increasingly important for any business, is particularly crucial in eCommerce where options are plentiful. Partnering with the right eCommerce developers gives you a passport to lifelong sales and loyalty.

What is Online Branding?

Having a firm grasp of what branding is and how eCommerce developers can build trust, preference, loyalty, and sales is crucial in an interconnected world. Most companies have an idea of what branding is but not every company masters the concept.

As of 2021, 71% of consumers interact with a brand online before making a purchase, including when purchasing from a brick-and-mortar location. Nearly 45% of people from the same survey were moved by a strong online presence to make a purchase.

Getting your qualities, products, and personality in front of the right people, the essence of branding means everything. With 12 million companies involved in this $4.9 trillion industry, it is more difficult than ever to market to potential customers.

The Problem with Online Branding

There is an ongoing boom in online sales as customers continue to shift online. The space grew by 40 percent in the first year of the pandemic.

Despite the growth, not everyone knows how to capitalize in a crowded space dominated by near-instant gratification. Retailers failing to make use of omnichannel marketing were twice as likely as those with a commitment to online branding to reach profitability.

Seven Reasons Why Branding Matters

The sheer number of eCommerce sites makes it difficult to stick out in a sea of options. Developing a strong brand is the first step to growing your business.

eCommerce developers can:

Create identifiable assets
Deliver an authentic personality to your target market
Form a preference
Build trust
Protect your identity
Generate loyalty
Drive Sales

A custom eCommerce website accompanied by a powerful online presence drives visitors to your platform. Solid branding turns visitors into customers, helping create a user experience that sells.

Deliverance

Your brand is the lens through which you drive business decisions, embodying the values and qualities that make you unique. Branding helps you portray the right message before others or a lack of care do it for you.

Your online presence allows you to prove that you live up to the promises you make. Whether presenting quality, environmentally conscious business decisions, or a commitment to customer service, you can show your best face online.

Trust

The capacity to embrace your message and craft a strong user experience creates trust in your company. There is a wealth of information available about products and, often, your company. Testimonials, criticism, reviews, and forums all impact trustworthiness.

Branding lets you put a positive face to your efforts. Baking your vision into your social media posts, blog, homepage, chat, and even checkout processes helps build trust.

Fair pricing is not all that matters. Adults between the ages of 18 and 34 trust companies that provide quality products backed by responsive customer service and a good reputation.

Preference

Being a trustworthy business with a strong vision builds a preference for your goods and services. An appealing brand is one that customers return to and advocate for.

An eCommerce website and social media can appeal to a customer base in the same way it generates trust. AI-driven chat services and feedback allow you to listen to and respond to your customers needs.

You can also promote your values. When faced with a decision between seemingly equal options, people are more likely to choose a brand that represents their feelings.

Creating an Experience that Drives Sales

By creating trust and preference, a well-crafted eCommerce platform drives sales. Your brand is a vital part of your sales funnel.

As search results, social media, and map postings push people to your website, your brand helps make a sale. The cycle repeats, creating lifelong customers loyal to your business.

Protecting Intellectual Property

Branding not only drives sales, but it also helps you protect your image. By helping establish trust, you also help legitimize your logos, images, name, and innovations.

People associate a brand with a look and feel. Good branding builds legitimacy and entrenches your logo and product in the minds of consumers.

Crafting an Asset

By delivering a trusted message, protecting your intellectual property, and helping drive sales, branding is an asset.

Online marketing, especially through a quality eCommerce developer, is 62 percent less costly than traditional marketing. You not only gain an asset but an affordable asset.

Get Started Branding your eCommerce Business

Listing the benefits of developing a brand is simple. However, firmly entrenching your brand in the mind of your target market takes more than commitment.

It can seem impossible to capitalize on your vision. If you feel lost, there are some basic guidelines to follow. You may want to hire an eCommerce developer as well.

Three Branding Tips to Get you Started

There are a few common guidelines all eCommerce websites should follow. They help with branding and capture the attention of your target market.

Use All Available Channels

Search engines and websites are not the only way potential customers reach your website. Seventy-six percent of consumers purchased products they saw on social media

Leaving entire segments of your market to the competition is not a sound business strategy. You must follow a data-driven approach to picking the channels with a high return on investment.

Be Consistent

Your online presence needs to deliver the right information to the right people in the right place. Your customers expect timely, accurate, and consistent information across all platforms.

An experience that overwhelms your target market or that is inconsistent creates confusion and drives people away from your brand. In fact, 60 percent of your potential customers expect a seamless experience across all platforms.

Be Data-Driven

Intuition is no longer the best way to make a decision. Companies that use report-driven experimentation succeed more often than their peers.

Use reporting and data to make decisions, refine your brand, and create a consistent message. Learn to target your customers without sacrificing your qualities and vision.

Find the Right ECommerce Partner

Professionalism and quality are key. Sleek, modern, and updated social media pages and a fresh homepage are crucial to your branding.

A good partner follows a proven content strategy and eCommerce website development process to craft an ecosystem that sells. As a custom software development agency, Spiral Scout is a proactive tech partner that stays on top of trends to help drive sales.

ECommerce Branding as a Business Asset

A modern eCommerce company needs to create an unparalleled user experience centered around its identity. Online branding is the perfect way to create the trust you need to succeed.

Online Casinos in the US: Regulations, Restrictions, Legislation & More

Gambling is legal on a federal level in the United States. However, that only means that states reserve the right to design regulations on their territories. Most states distinguish land-based gambling from playing casino games online.

This guide will be focusing on assessing the current legality situation of internet casinos. We’ll discuss the states that outlaw gambling, as well as those that allow it. Here is what you should know about internet gaming in the US!

How Many States Allow Online Gambling?

The gambling legality situation in the US is far more complex than in other countries. For example, visiting HEX™ Online Casino South Africa will suggest the best gaming platforms available throughout this country. But if you are in the United States, you need to check local regulations first. That way, you can confirm if online casinos are available in that location.

Approximately 20 states allow internet sports betting. It seems that most local governments have the most relaxed laws for this type of online wagering. The situation is not that promising for internet casinos as most states have strict regulations for these companies. Here is an overview of territories with fairly relaxed laws in the US!

New Jersey

It all started with New Jersey in 2013. This state was the first to issue a license to an online casino. The government made an excellent move since reports indicate it already earned over $519 million through taxes. The local authorities have had revenue of over $86.5 million, too.

The Division of Gaming Enforcement is in charge of regulating online casinos in New Jersey. You can pick from around ten internet gambling platforms, including reputable names like Golden Nugget and Borgata.

New Jersey considers many online gambling forms legal. That means you can play roulette and other casino games, spin slots, or enjoy blackjack. It’s also possible to play poker, wager on sports and participate in real money fantasy sports competitions. Horse racing and lotteries are both legal, too.

Michigan

If you love online poker, you can enjoy it in Michigan. The same applies to sports wagering and fantasy competitions. Michigan implemented the Lawful Internet Gaming Act in 2019. After Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed it, the state established the Michigan Gaming Control Board. It issues licenses to the state and monitors that they comply with the latest regulations.

West Virginia

Roulette, slots, and lottery fans will all love West Virginia. The state legalized online gambling in 2019 with its West Virginia Lottery Interactive Wagering Act. It’s interesting to note that you can play fantasy sports from 2016. That’s when the Attorney General officially released an opinion that those games are legal. It’s the WV Lottery that acts as the regulating authority in the gaming industry.

Which States Could Legalize Online Casinos Soon?

Illinois and New York asked for the opinion of the Department of Justice regarding online lottery sales in 2009. It took two years, but the response was positive. It’s important because the states now have full freedom to legalize internet gambling.

As we see more states legalizing internet gaming, the odds are we’ll see better online casino selection, too. That includes new game availability and more tempting new and loyal player bonuses. Some platforms might even accept some cryptocurrencies, especially dependent ones like Bitcoin and Altcoin.

Sports betting seems to be on the best path to legalization in most of the country. Some activity is noticeable in more than a dozen of states. And placing sports wagers is the first step to regulating online casinos, too.

Is Online Gambling Legal in California?

You’ll find Hollywood in California, so it’s no wonder this state is famous for its entertainment industry. And since Nevada is nearby, you might think gambling is popular here, too. The truth is different because the State of California considers online gambling illegal.

It was in 1872 when the state adopted the California Penal Code. It outlawed casinos and any house-banked games. However, citizens could still play games between themselves. That loophole saw many card houses opening throughout the state. Although the state imposed a freeze on opening new cardrooms, poker fans can enjoy this game in land-based facilities.

The US Supreme Court prevented California from banning gambling on tribal lands in 1987. That opened a path to establishing land-based gaming facilities. However, the state remains strict when it comes to online gambling regulations. That’s strange because California could benefit from this industry with huge revenue via taxes and other fees.

You can see some changes for the better in California legislation. In 2020, Adam Gray and Senator Bill Dodd proposed the legalization of sports betting. Apart from wagering on horse races, all forms of sports betting are currently illegal. Gray argues that California can deal with the budget deficit caused by pandemics by adjusting these laws. He claims revenue from sports betting would secure funds for public safety and education programs.

Online casinos will have to wait for sports betting legalization first. That means they will remain illegal for at least a couple more years. Until that happens, playing online might lead to fines and other legal issues.

Why States Should Consider Legalizing Online Casinos

Removing restrictions for online gambling platforms can be beneficial for the entire society. Here is how legalizing the internet gaming business can be a positive thing:

Additional governmental revenue. The money received from online gambling taxes can serve for important public projects. That could deliver an overall economic boost, which is important in post-COVID times.
Put things under control. Many states deal with illegal casinos. The state doesn’t earn from these facilities, and they are also unregulated. Players could be victims of financial fraud or identity theft if they use the services of illegal online casinos. But if the state legalizes the market, it also puts it under control. That improves overall player safety and protects citizens.
Enhancing service quality. Online casinos will have more competition. They’ll also need to comply with state regulations and acquire licenses. It will result in enhancing the service offered to players.

Final Thoughts

The situation regarding online casinos legality in the US could only change for the better. It’s hard to believe that any state that has already legalized internet gambling will change its regulations. We can only see the number of territories where you could play without restrictions increase.

Despite the large morality issue regarding gambling, many consider it only a fun hobby. Now the pandemic limited traveling, and more players migrated to online casinos. The industry’s popularity will continue growing, which will force politicians to consider how to legalize the local market. It might take time, but most US states are likely to allow online gambling in the future.

Paying Bills Strategically

If the bills are bombarding you monthly and you’re finding it difficult to keep up with them all, it’s high time you do something about it before you get behind in other areas including your emergency fund or retirement account. That’s why paying bills strategically is paramount – there must be a method to the proverbial madness. Keep reading for more.

Know How Much You Owe

If you’ve been taking a scattershot approach to paying your debts, it’s time for you to understand just how big your debt load is. That means making a list that includes, for every account, the debt type, balance, interest rate, payment term, and minimum monthly payment allowed.

Establish a Budget

It’s also crucial that you know how much you’ve been spending and where your money is going. This way, you can figure out the next step, which goes to payment affordability.

Many experts advocate for the 50/30/20 budget approach, which entails earmarking half your income for “needs,” 30% for “wants,” and 20% for savings.

Calculate How Much You Can Pay Monthly

Use your budget to figure out:

The amount you must pay to cover necessities (housing, groceries, utilities, and insurance and the like
How much you put toward your debt every month
Whether there are expenditures you can cut out to have extra money for debts
Whether you have extra money from gigs or a side hustle that you can put toward your debt

Repayment Strategies

Here are a few effective ways in which you can get out from under your debt. Note, though, that none of these will ultimately work if you don’t have your spending habits under control:

The Snowball Method

This approach is especially popular among those who feed off the momentum that early “wins” produce.

It involves throwing everything you have at your smallest debt, while making minimum payments on your other accounts. Then you tackle the next-largest debt, and on and on until you’ve become debt free.

The Debt Avalanche Method

Here, erasing a large debt can promote feelings of control and encourage you to keep going. How it works is, you pay the debt with the largest balance or highest interest rate as quickly as possible, while making minimum payments on all your other accounts. Then rinse and repeat until your debts are cleared.

Debt Consolidation

With this method, you roll multiple high-interest debts into a single fixed payment, with hopefully a better rate.

This is a good strategy for those who are having a hard time keeping track of multiple debts with varying payments and due dates, since it streamlines all that. Consolidation approaches include:

Home equity. Here,you can borrow against the equity you’ve established in your home to pay off your debts, then pay off your consolidation loan over time.Your interest rate will likely be low, and for good reason: because your home is attached as collateral, the lender can foreclose if you miss payments.
Debt consolidation loan. You can get a personal loan, use it to consolidate and pay off your debts, then make one monthly payment to your lender. While you may be able to get such a loan with subpar credit, consolidation works best if you have a lower interest rate than what you’re now paying. In fact, check out Achieve personal loans for the best rates.
Balance transfer card. Occasionally, credit card companies will issue what’s known as a 0% balance transfer card onto which you can shift your higher-interest card balances, then pay off the new card. The main proviso is that you must be able to erase all your debts before the promotional period ends – in less than two years – and the old rate shoots back up.

Debt Relief

Also known as debt settlement, this financial strategy entails hiring a company such as Freedom Debt Relief to go to your creditors to see whether they’d be willing to have each pf your debts marked as “settled” in exchange for a one-time payment in full for less than what you owe. Creditors are typically amenable since they realize that if you file for bankruptcy, they will likely get little to nothing.

The whole process usually takes between 24 to 48 months, although you’ll likely get your initial settlement within the first couple of months.

Ultimately, paying bills strategically means finding a solution that works best for your financial situation – and sticking to it. It also means making sure you first have your spending under control, so that you don’t find yourself in this situation again.

Home Upgrades for Those Who Love Entertaining

If you love holding dinner parties or hosting friends, you might want to consider a few upgrades that can turn your home into a friendly space for guests to visit. These upgrades can turn your home into a fun and welcoming space for hosting events, whether it is having a few friends over or hosting a large party.

A Home Elevator

If you enjoy throwing bigger parties, a home elevator is almost a must. It allows caterers to easily move between floors without needing to move carts or trays up the stairs. If you host anyone with disabilities, an elevator can make the entire home welcoming, not just the spaces on the ground level. You can do your research to find the best home elevator for your house.

Guest-Friendly Décor

If you put up lights for hosting parties, consider getting permanent ones put in instead. Adding smart, durable lights can save energy and time. You won’t need to get out a ladder to put them up each time you have a party. These lights can help add a festive atmosphere, especially if you get colored bulbs. Another guest-friendly upgrade is a more open floor plan. Having fewer barriers between the living room and kitchen means your home will look larger, and it allows for better traffic flow. It allows guests to mingle between the kitchen and living area easily and more efficiently.

Rooms for Guests

If you already have a spare room in the house, you can find year round furniture ideas and turn it into an entertainment room for guests and the family to enjoy. It could become a home movie theater if you get an entertainment system and some comfortable seating. If you enjoy playing games, you could add a game table, pool table, consoles, and board games, depending on the type of games you enjoy playing. You could also turn an extra room into a guest bedroom. Whether you plan on having out-of-town guests spend a few days with you or just lose track of time while hanging out with your friends, a spare bedroom can be a plus. You can keep clean sheets on the bed and make sure there is a space for your guests to keep their luggage.

Outdoor Entertainment

If you like hosting outside, you may want to consider an outdoor upgrade to increase the livable space outside. You might add an outdoor kitchen to bring barbeques or dinner parties to the next level. You can keep cooking smells out of the house, and this type of kitchen allows you to easily cook in batches. While it might be hot working in it in the summer, it also keeps the heat out of your home so your air conditioning does not need to work as hard. A deck is another upgrade to consider. It allows you to entertain guests outside during the warmer months. If you don’t want to invest in a full deck, you may be able to add a patio near a ground-level exit of the home.