Archive for February, 2009

Do Your Taxes for Free This Year

Monday, February 23rd, 2009

For filers making $56,000 or less you can file for free with the IRS. Simply use their free tax software known as Free File. Distressed taxpayers can also get help from the IRS.

The IRS Website has other free tools and forms for those that made more than $56,000 last year.

Choosing a Hardwood Floor Contractor

Wednesday, February 18th, 2009

Atlanta Hardwood Floor Installer

There’s nothing quite like the smooth, sleek look of hardwood floors. And, as a homeowner, you not only want beautiful floors but to have them installed properly and at a price you know is fair. But how can you determine what company will provide you with both? Whether you search online or use the yellow pages, you are likely to be overwhelmed by the many choices. As you begin your quest for a quality hardwood floor contractor with reasonable rates, prime products and superior work ethics, here are a few things to keep in mind. Don’t forget that if you are in Georgia look to LocalPrice for Atlanta Hardwood Floor Contractors that can ensure that your floor is installed correctly and looks great.

  • Since many hardwood floor contractors are small companies, you may not find all of them on-line or even listed in the yellow pages. Consequently, try asking the people at your local hardware store or at the dealer where you purchased the flooring as well as any neighbors, family members or co-workers who have had hardwood flooring installed.
  • Be sure to get at least 3 estimates. While this seems to be time-consuming, an average interview will only take 20 minutes. As you talk to each prospect be sure to inquire about labor cost, insurance and liability, and the amount of time the job will require.
  • When you are interviewing a prospective contractor, they will likely do their own square foot measurement. Don’t be alarmed if their numbers are higher than yours—they figure in a 10% overage to allot for unused portions of the cut wood. This average measurement will be used to determine your estimate.
  • Don’t be afraid to negotiate for a better price or to ask for assistance in moving any furniture. Other negotiation considerations are –
    • • Sealing the room off with plastic
    • • Requiring that any cutting is done outside
    • • Asking if they will cut under existing baseboard
    • • Will they use quarter-round over any gaps between existing baseboards and the hardwood flooring
  • Be sure that the company has the appropriate business licensing
  • Check out any referrals. If possible, ask if you can see any jobs the company has done.
  • Talk to the Better Business Bureau-ask about any complaints/commendations; ask about honoring of contracts with homeowners and suppliers.

So select your hardwood flooring, hire a contractor –there is a great selection at LocalPrice.com–and get ready to enjoy your beautiful floors!

Selecting a Granite Countertop Installer

Tuesday, February 10th, 2009

Atlanta Granite Countertops

Gold garnet, Crema Bordeau, Verde Butterfly—there are many types of granite, all with their unique personalities and qualities. As an Atlanta homeowner, having granite countertops installed is a fantastic way to add more value and elegance to your home; and, just as there are a variety of choices in granite slabs, there is also a number of Atlanta granite installers. To help in selecting an Atlanta installer, here are a few tips.

  • Beware of rates that are considerably lower than others—a great price does not necessarily equal excellent quality. Oftentimes these companies may give a low price quote, but then add in extra items on the expenses not included in the original bid.
  • Don’t succumb to a salesman that needs you to commit to their company “on the spot”. Be sure to compare prices and customer reviews whether by word of mouth or on resources like LocalPrice.com.
  • Take your time—during busy seasons, the best companies can be backed up, don’t hire someone simply because their calendar is open—ask why they don’t have a lot of work at a time when premier companies have a waiting list.
  • Just because a company’s sign is in your neighbor’s yard does not mean that they were (are) please with the installer’s performance-sometimes having a company’s sign in the yard is part of the contract.
  • Be sure to get more than 1 referral for the granite countertop installation company you are considering; also, asking the company for a customer list is only going to give you the name of satisfied customers. Rather ask those you know who have had granite countertops installed, for their recommendations.
  • Contact the Better Business Bureau for a list of companies that have received great reviews. Find out if the company honors their contracts with the homeowners as well any suppliers.
  • Be sure that whatever Atlanta granite countertop installation company you hire carries workman’s compensation and liability insurance.
  • Selecting an Atlanta contractor may take time, but having a kitchen with beautiful granite countertops will be worth it. Now with LocalPrice you can find Atlanta granite countertops and installation companies easier than ever before.

Killer Startups Review – Vote for Us

Friday, February 6th, 2009

We got a review on the Killer Startups Website. We can use all the support you can offer so please visit and vote for us: