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From Howie B
Spring has arrived early and winter was a no show! How wonderful on both accounts.
The economy is slowing coming back; however many folks are still having a tough time and have not yet been fully reemployed. Remember, communicating your circumstances is the key to having them resolving well. If you are behind or think you might get behind due a change in income circumstances, be proactive and let me know. We can work something out. We rarely need to put tenants out but will if necessary. Lack of communication from the tenant is almost always the root of a putout.
This is the so-called “new” economy. In this “new” economy, job stability is less of a reality and the future of this “new” economy seems significantly more uncertain from historical standards based upon most professional evaluations. This is the slowest recovery from a recession in American history. I suggest that you get a month ahead on each of your bills – rent, gas & electric, cell phone, car payments, etc. This will give you peace of mind, help your credit scores, build you a financial cushion and save you late fees which are far more expensive than the interest you can earn in any investment vehicle. This is your personal start in proactively dealing with this “new” economy.
BGE utility rates are lower this year than last and the milder winter gave everyone a small break on monthly bills. That, however, is no reason to stop conserving and continuing to look for ways to reduce your utility costs. Use your ceiling fans, for the summer adjust the blades to force the air downward, wash clothes in the evenings after 7 pm and on weekends, program your PeakRewards® thermostats to your household’s schedule, get on the PeakRewards® program for $100 in summer billing credits if you are not already signed up, and shorten your showers. (I am very guilt of long showers.) Exelon has acquired Baltimore Gas & Electric and each residential account is scheduled to receive a $100 credit in the upcoming months.
As promised, the United States Postal Service is closing locations and reconfiguring their operations due to the “new’ economy. In some communities they are opening smaller locations inside of other businesses such as pharmacies, flower shops, Wal-Mart®, etc. They have stated, and I have already seen some results of their actions, that mail service will get SLOWER. That means you need to mail rents and other bills earlier to avoid late fees; also adjust the timing with your check forwarding companies. Remember, we are happy to hold post-dated checks for future rents that will never be deposited early. Tenants love this service and save lots on late fees and postage.
Howie B - Top Tips to Keep the City of Baltimore Out of Your Wallet
- Slow down your driving. These speed cameras are popping up everywhere and are only about raising money NOT safety. They are $40 each, unlimited quantities of fines are available!
- Pay for the parking; the tickets are expensive and the meter readers are using electronic equipment that allows them to write a ticket with a GPS technology in seconds. Additionally, the late fees are absurd!
- Pay any unpaid traffic tickets immediately. Besides the late charges running up, it will immediately affect your MVA vehicle tag renewals.
- Keep your yard clean and the lawn trimmed, including the alley behind or beside your homes. The City is raising major revenue, $75 at a time. Do not store junk in your yard.
- Be sure to place your trash and recycle at the curb on the appropriate time and day. Trash must be in cans with lids; if placed at the curb in just a trash bag, they are not picking it up and are then following with violations. Be sure recycle items are clearly labeled and secure. Go to baltimorecity.gov for more details.
FACTOID: Hard surface flooring is better for your health then carpeting. They are easier to keep clean and do not hold as much dirt and allergens. Almost all of our residential units are carpetless, with hardwood or or other hard surface floors.
Enjoy the warmth and Spring and know that Howie B appreciates every tenant and every tenant referral.
Thanks,
Howie B
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