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	<title>Self Storage News</title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news.php</link>
	<description>Self Storage News</description>
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	<title><![CDATA[A Convenient Move]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/A_Convenient_Move.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Relocating to a new home is typically seen as a time consuming, energy draining, stressful and expensive experience. Not only do you have to pack up everything you own, which is an ordeal in itself, but then you either have to physically load and unload a moving truck with all of your things or you have to pay good money to have someone do it for you. If you pay the movers, and pay them well, they will driver the truck to your new location. If not, then you get the honor of maneuvering a huge moving truck with everything you own in it. Hit a curb the wrong way and oops! There goes the china! Movers can be expensive, and moving trucks, once gas costs and the hours of back breaking labor are factored in, not to mention the china, can sometimes be just as costly. </p>
<p>Renting a moving truck or van has always just been one of those expected expenses when you were moving to a new home. In addition to the cost of renting the truck, there was always the concern of having to pick it up and return it at the appropriate time, cleaned out, no less. They truck companies even expected you to sweep the thing out and fill it with gas. What a hassle! You have been up for the last two days moving all of your belongings and your life is in total disarray. The last thing you want to do is sweep out the back of the moving truck, right? But now there is a new way to move from one house to another. Introducing portable mini storage . Portable mini storage is one of the most cost effective and easiest ways to move, or simply store your belongings. </p>
<p>Times have changed, and moving is a whole lot more convenient than it used to be. Portable mini storage lets you take it slow, pack with care, and then move on to other priorities. You see, the company drops off one or more portable containers in your driveway and you leisurely fill it with your things. Take up to a week, if you need to. Packing smart, filling boxes completely, putting items that you may need sooner at the front of the container, and making sure to protect your fragile items with plenty of bubble packing wrap and foam packing peanuts will insure that you remain calm and your belongings remain safe. Simply load up the containers with your belongings, lock it up with a lock that only you have a key to, and that is it. You are done. The containers are picked up from your driveway and taken right to the door of your new home. No more mileage charges. No more truck rental fees. No more hassle. You pull up to your new home, and all of your things are already there, waiting for you, safe and secure. </p>
<p>The concept of portable mini storage is truly convenient, and the service that it provides saves you hassle on so many levels. If you have items that you just do not need to take to your new home, with portable mini storage you can simply have the entire container stored at the facility until you are ready to access it again. One phone call is all it takes and your container is brought out, whether you simply need to retrieve something from it, or you need to have it delivered to your door again. This is truly a convenience whose time has come. With portable mini storage , moving and storing your belongings will never be the same again. </p>
<p><a href="http://new-jersey-secaucus-07094-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Secaucus Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=920" title="A Convenient Move">A Convenient Move</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 29 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/A_Convenient_Move.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[10 Ingredients Of A Property Management Agreement]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/10_Ingredients_Of_A_Property_Management_Agreement.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>The wise investor has a legal real estate management agreement written to cover all the areas that may cause disputes. The investor and the management company should negotiate any areas they feel problems might arise. Commercial properties will have different points that need to be considered from a residential property. Each agreement will list the key points important to each party. </p>
<p>A management team can be any number of services provided by the manager. The owner needs to have all the necessary services included in the managers compensation. If they are not listed in the agreement the manager will often charge these as additional services. The reputation of the manager and their ability to perform are key elements when the investor selects a manager.</p>
<p>There are several key points that should be included and negotiated in your real estate management agreement . </p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>1.&nbsp;Independent contractor status of the manager. The manager should not become an employee of the owner. As an independent contractor, the owner is not responsible for withholdings and tax obligations on the managers pay. The duties and responsibilities of the manager should be established from the beginning. The owner should interview prospective managers and get outlines of the services they offer. </p>
<p>2.&nbsp;The fee. Is the manager fee a percentage of rent collected or a flat fee? What is included in the normal services? What is charged an extra fee? Is there a fee for extra showings? Do evictions cost beyond the legal fees? How much is the fee? The fee should be clearly stated in the agreement and understood by both parties.</p>
<p>3.&nbsp;Employees of the manager. The real estate management agreement should clearly outline what employees the company will regularly employ. The contract will state if they will be full or part time and if the manager lives on site or off. </p>
<p>4.&nbsp;The contract should state who would actually be handling your property. One person should handle your property all the time. </p>
<p>5.&nbsp;How is the fee collected? The real estate management agreement should point out exactly how accounts are set up for the compensation of the manager and the employees. </p>
<p>6.&nbsp;Detailed information on how rents are collected and bills paid. Will money be put into a reserve account for the managers use? How are excess funds used? What about emergency repair costs? How will they be handled?</p>
<p>7.&nbsp;Outline the types of advertising the company will use. What is the role of the manager in the leasing effort? What forms of advertising do they use? What is the cost? Both parties should decide if they need advertising and how often. The owner will have final approval of all advertising including brochures. The manager is in charge of getting the advertising produced. All material should comply with truth in lending policies, fair housing, ADA and handicap access laws. </p>
<p>8.&nbsp;How will monthly reports be handled? What reports are sent?</p>
<p>9.&nbsp;Termination clause. A well drawn real estate management agreement provides the grounds for termination by either side and renewal rights of any party. The grounds for termination should be clearly stated. </p>
<p>10.&nbsp;Conflicts of interest. The owner should be alert for any deals the manager for his own purposes such as purchasing services through a related company. They should also note when the management accepts management or leasing on other projects that can compete with the owners. These can cause possible areas of conflict. <br /></p></blockquote>
<p>An investor should have a legal agreement made to outline all possible problems when hiring a manager. </p>
<p><a href="http://new-jersey-secaucus-07094-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Secaucus Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1024" title="10 Ingredients Of A Property Management Agreement">10 Ingredients Of A Property Management Agreement</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 29 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/10_Ingredients_Of_A_Property_Management_Agreement.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Legitimate Mystery Shopper FAQs]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Legitimate_Mystery_Shopper_FAQs.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>A lot of students need extra money while in college. One way to make some is to do some shopper jobs. But finding a legitimate mystery shopper job takes a little research. We will answer some of the most frequently asked questions. </p>
<p><strong>How does a student find legitimate mystery shopper jobs?</strong> </p>
<p>Use online search engines to find companies hiring students and others. Fill out online applications and research companies offering jobs. Visit shopping forums for companies hiring shoppers. Experienced shoppers are more than willing to give newbies advice and support in their job search. Forums are also a great way to get answers to any questions on how to get started in the marketing and shopping field.</p>
<p><strong>How much can a student realistically expect to earn?</strong></p>
<p>Pay for a legitimate mystery shopper varies considerably upon many things. The type of industry offering the job, how difficult the assignment is and the amount of detail the shopper needs to get all affect the pay. Typically a shop will pay from 5 dollars to 20 dollars while a complex assignment may pay as much as 75 dollars.� Most shoppers must sign a confidentiality agreement with the provider and the client. They are not allowed to disclose how much they make per assignment.</p>
<p><strong>Can any student be a shopper?</strong></p>
<p>Almost any man or woman of any age and background can be a shopper. College students and stay at home moms can earn a little money on the side. The person must be reliable, able to recall observations with attention to detail, have good follow through on their commitments and possess good grammar and writing ability.</p>
<p><strong>What types of companies hire shopper services?</strong></p>
<p>Many types of companies hire shoppers to do marketing research for them. Some of the more popular are restaurants and retail shops, hotels and banks. Other industries include resorts, hospital and physician offices and apartment leasing services. You might get an assignment from automotive service facilities, convenience stores or grocery stores. Mobile communications companies, luxury products retailers and self storage facilities are among the many others who hire legitimate mystery shopper jobs.</p>
<p><strong>What jobs can a student be expected to perform as a shopper?</strong></p>
<p>Each job will be different and require different tasks. One assignment might ask the shopper to look for a certain product or observe a certain sales staff member. You might be required to ask certain questions while evaluating the customer service you receive. Before going on an assignment, the shopper is given detailed instructions on what the client is looking for and what questions should be asked. The shopper fills out a detailed report after the shop assignment is completed. Some questions on the evaluation might include some of the following. </p>
<p><em>Were you greeted by an associate when you entered the store? <br />What was your wait time to be served?<br />Were you offered upgrades or extended warranties on your product purchase? <br />Was the sales staff helpful and friendly?</em></p>
<p><strong>Does it cost the student to be a legitimate mystery shopper ?</strong></p>
<p>No. A company will not charge a fee to apply. Common scams include being charged a fee to find jobs or receiving an unsolicited cashiers check and asked to wire money to an off shore account. Like any other job, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. You should be skeptical of companies who advertise in the help wanted ads in newspapers and through email.�<br />�<br /><a href="http://new-jersey-secaucus-07094-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Secaucus RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1025" title="Legitimate Mystery Shopper FAQs">Legitimate Mystery Shopper FAQs</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 29 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Legitimate_Mystery_Shopper_FAQs.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Applying Quality Assurance To Our Lives]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Applying_Quality_Assurance_To_Our_Lives.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Quality assurance has been defined as a process that allows a person to take meaningful and deliberate steps to attain a specific target or ambition. Many companies use quality assurance employees or companies in order that they know at all times that their company has the highest standards for products and employees.� </p>
<p>A big question that a lot of people might have is, if quality assurance helps so many companies and is so effective in creating successful businesses, why do individuals not take these same tactics and apply them in their everyday lives? It is a great question, and one that should be asked by anyone seriously wanting to improve their life and relationships. If people were as careful with the choices they make in their own lives, whether big or small, as they were picky about the people who work under them or the type of image they put across at work, they would see huge improvements in their lives.</p>
<p>Take the above mentioned definition of quality assurance , for instance. It is a process. So many people think they have to do things right the first time, and if they do not, they give up. While trying your hardest and trying to get it right the first time is a good idea and shows strength and focus, you have to realize also that you are human, and mistakes happen constantly. If you do not succeed the first time, or even the second, all you can do is try again. If it is important enough to you, you will try until you get it right, it is that simple.</p>
<p>Not only is it a process, but it is a process of meaningful and deliberate steps. These steps are very small many times, so small that you might not even see them. If you have problems in your life, or a theoretical mountain you have to climb, it may seem initially impossible, and you might feel like giving up before you begin. But every step, even if it is tiny, gets you a little closer to where you want and need to be. The steps are meaningful because they are personal to you. Only you can decide what each step you take will be, and therefore mean to you. The steps are deliberate because you decide to take them, you choose to take them. It is a choice, not something you fall into by accident, or let happen to you. When you realize that you truly have this control, and that you can make big things happen by controlling smaller seemingly unimportant things, you will gain load of self confidence and a great feeling of empowerment that is priceless in getting you to your goal.</p>
<p>And this is the last part of the definition of quality assurance , your goal, or target. It is also somehow the first part of the process as well, in that you have to know what your target is before you can even think about beginning to aim for it. Possibly you have decided on a target already, or maybe you do not even know what you want. Whatever the case, you have to know what it is you want, what is your ambition, before you can begin the long path to excellence in both your life and your personal relationships. And once you know, remember to always keep it in your sights.</p>
<p><a href="http://new-jersey-secaucus-07094-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Secaucus Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=548" title="Applying Quality Assurance To Our Lives">Applying Quality Assurance To Our Lives</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 29 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Applying_Quality_Assurance_To_Our_Lives.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Roles and Responsibilities of Condo Management]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Roles_and_Responsibilities_of_Condo_Management.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Condominium living is a multidimensional experience for the people who choose to do it. On the one hand, you do pay mortgage on your home, so technically, it belongs to you. You can not be evicted, you do not have to renew your lease, and you can sell your home if and when you choose. Even though the unit owner owns their space and takes responsibility of most of the repairs and upkeep, however, most communities have a board of directors that then hire individuals or corporations to serve as condo management . </p>
<p>These individuals have many responsibilities to the community itself and should be chosen by the board with great care, as they will be directly involved with the owners themselves. Ideally your community will benefit if this person has strong social interaction skills and is well liked within the community. This serves to build strong ties between unit owners and the board, insuring smooth relationships and ease of communication.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Since one of the most important responsibilities of condo management is that of a liaison between the board of directors and the owners of the units, it stands to reason that this person will be the one that the unit owners go to for general correspondence. Representing the collective group of homeowners is no small task. When there is a discrepancy or an emergency of some kind, it is the responsibility of the management to be on the front lines, resolving the issue and being the person in charge to insure that legally as well as mechanically, the homeowners have someone on their side. </p>
<p>Condo management also has a responsibility to supervise all employees of the property, including maintenance workers, repairmen of various kinds and contracted labor. They need to be paid, their payroll taxes need to be taken out, and the financial stability of the property itself must be tended to and secured. This person is also responsible for keeping records of all correspondence with unit owners and repair persons, and keeping an account of all funds that are spent, what they are spent on and who they are paid to. Even if the property itself is small, this can be a large task to complete. </p>
<p>If unit owners question the validity or feasibility of certain rules or restrictions that have been created within the community, condo management is who they will go to in order to get the ball rolling to either amend or completely do away with the rule. The manager represents the unit owners in front of the board in every instance. It is vital that they are holding the best interests of the unit owners firmly in mind. </p>
<p>In addition, creating the annual budget for the property is yet another one of the responsibilities that condo management may be required to take on. It takes a great deal of energy, time and work to keep an entire condominium community running smoothly and operating sufficiently at all levels. Consideration must be given to financial responsibilities, maintenance responsibilities, emergency actions and unit owner/board relations. </p>
<p>Finding someone with a strong, genuine work ethic who understands this type of responsibility can be challenging. Seek out bids from many different candidates, and take your time making the decision. Award this type of responsibility only after a thorough background search and many interviews have been conducted. Finding the right person for the job is more important than filling an empty seat. The unit owners will surely agree. </p>
<p><a href="http://new-jersey-secaucus-07094-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Secaucus Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=528" title="Roles and Responsibilities of Condo Management">Roles and Responsibilities of Condo Management</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 29 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Roles_and_Responsibilities_of_Condo_Management.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Finding Local Self Storage]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Finding_Local_Self_Storage.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>If you are sitting at your desk waiting for the next task to perform, here is something that you can do to pass time. You can open up any search engine or the yellow pages and search for local self storage . You might feel that is boring, but if you just humor us and do it you will be pleasantly surprised.</p>
<p>When you type in random zip codes to see how many local self storage locations are available, you will see anywhere from fifteen to over two hundred locations. If you think about it, that is a crazy amount of locations available to choose from. No one gives much thought to the fact that there are that many facilities out there, but this industry is the fastest growing business out there now. </p>
<p>When it comes to finding local self storage , as you can see above there is not a lack of options. Because of multiple locations being available, that means that it is not easy to decide on which facility fits you. What advantages does one facility have over another?</p>
<p>In the current market, you will find a small amount of differences between one facility than the other. Sometimes you will find glaring differences. When you go to a search engine online, you will find that the first page of facilities are first because they either have the most advertising dollars to spend or they have the most internet hits that show that their site is popular. </p>
<p>When searching for the best local self storage for you, do not get lost in the hype. Facilities are going to throw everything at you but the kitchen sink sometimes in order to get you to sign on the dotted line. Some places you might offer you a dollar to move in to their facility or give you a free truck to bring your belongings to their facility. If one of those great specials works for you and your situation, you should jump all over it. </p>
<p>Getting down to the importance of why you are storing. You do not have room for the items you are storing at your home. You want your belongings to be safe and secure where you decide to store them. Some facilities do not have that safety and security that most people desire. You can drive down the street or down the highway and see which facilities, without having to drive in, have some security. You will see that some facilities have gates that surround the location and you might see cameras. What that means to you is even if someone tried to break in and climb the fence, the camera would see them. There are some facilities that anyone can drive around to all the spaces, cut the locks and make off with your belongings. However, the positive of having a storing space at that facility is that because they do not have to pay for security of the facility, they can offer you a lower price.&nbsp; That is a decision that you have to make. </p>
<p>Finding a local self storage is the easy part of the equation. Finding the one that best fits what you are looking for is not the easiest part. How you make that decision is within yourself. You can call into the different facilities that you are looking at and talk to a local self storage associate. They can tell you what they have to offer and some places actually do a great job narrowing down a space that will work the best for you. </p>
<p>Understand that this industry is very competitive, that is why there are so many of them because they believe they can out sell their competition. With the different specials, prices, locations and amenities, look past all of the things that do not matter to you and make a decision to store based of what is important to you. No matter how much someone pushes you into storing with them locally, it is ultimately your choice because you know your situation better than anyone.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64155-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=918" title="Finding Local Self Storage">Finding Local Self Storage</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Finding_Local_Self_Storage.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[A Collectors Guide To Self Storage Insurance]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/A_Collectors_Guide_To_Self_Storage_Insurance.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You started collecting antique books years ago. Now you have discovered online auctions and wow, your collection is taking over your home. You decide to store some of the books to sell later. You have listed several on the auction sites already but need a safe place to store all of the ones you will not be keeping. You packed them up and thought they were safe. Then disaster struck. The units were vandalized. Now many of the books are damaged. You bought self storage insurance but was it enough? </p>
<p>Most good warehouse owners will offer you insurance coverage for your goods stored at their facility. They can offer you short term insurance for 1 or 2 months. If the facility does not offer the amount of coverage you need or you do not feel comfortable with their coverage shop around for your own coverage. Often you home owners insurance policy will cover your items when they are placed in a warehouse storing facility. Check with your agent before purchasing the warehouse policy. Find out if the policy covers natural disasters such as floods, fire and theft. </p>
<p>Consider purchasing a separate tenants policy to cover expensive items like furniture, heirloom china and collectibles. You want your goods to be adequately covered from a disaster or unfortunate event. </p>
<p>Normally a self storage insurance policy will cover damages or lost property due to burglary, wind or hailstorms, fire or smoke damage, lightning, vandalism, water damage or building collapse. </p>
<p>Read your policy carefully. Some policies do not cover losses due to floods especially after the huge losses claimed after hurricane Katrina. You may have to shop around to find a policy that covers floods.</p>
<p>Make sure you get enough coverage to replace the cost of your goods. If the value of your collections is 10,000 dollars and your insurance coverage is just 40 percent of the value, you will only receive 4,000 dollars. Of course the more coverage you want, the higher the premium. The normal household contents is valued at the replacement cost while antiques, boats and collectibles will most likely be valued at their market value.</p>
<p>Most self storage insurance policies will cover the contents such as personal items. Sports equipment, trailers, motorcycles and boats are often included. A separate policy will be needed to cover any business or commercial property. Documents and digital data will be valued at their new stationary costs.</p>
<p>Some self storage insurance policies might exclude important documents such as deeds, bills, securities, notes, money, jewelry and precious stones, watches, boats, furs, and some vehicles. Many of the items that could be excluded like deeds and money, jewelry and precious stones should be stored in a safe deposit box instead of a public facility to store them. Other items that might be excluded in a normal policy are stamps, lottery tickets and anything living like plants or animals. Before you decide on a particular company or policy, read the policy carefully to be aware of what types of property it covers. Having all your collectible books destroyed only to find out they are excluded from your policy can make for a very bad day.</p>
<p>When you decide to store your excess books in a facility, get all the facts on if and how much self storage insurance the facility offers. You were thorough in your research before you signed the policy and your agent has issued the replacement cost of the books for their market value.<br />&nbsp;<br /><a href="http://missouri-springfiled-65803-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Springfield Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=919" title="A Collectors Guide To Self Storage Insurance">A Collectors Guide To Self Storage Insurance</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/A_Collectors_Guide_To_Self_Storage_Insurance.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Managing Your Mystery Shopping Jobs]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Managing_Your_Mystery_Shopping_Jobs.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>If you have a life and a job that seem to leave you no room for anything extra, you might need some tips on time management. One of the first things to realize when managing your time is that, if you are supporting yourself or a family, you will need a job that is two things. </p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>��One, it makes the money to support you <br />��Two, it is something that will work with you at least a little when you are managing the time in your life. </p></blockquote>
<p>Many people do not know where they could even begin to look for such a job, but mystery shopper programs offer just these types of jobs.</p>
<p><strong>Benefits of Shopper Programs</strong></p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>��Mystery shopper programs allow you to <strong>set your own schedule</strong>. <br />��Mystery shopper programs allow you to pick and <strong>choose what jobs</strong> you will take and where. <br />��And lastly, mystery shopper programs have the potential to make <strong>part time</strong> or even <strong>full time</strong> pay if you are willing to put effort into them.</p></blockquote>
<p>�If you decide that you want to go with a job through mystery shopper programs or any other company that works with you in this flexible way, you will have a very important step taken care of in your goal to time management.</p>
<p>Another thing you have to remember is that there will never be more than 24 hours in your day. So no matter how much you arrange and rearrange your agenda, you might just have to face the fact that there could be some things you possibly have to cut altogether. Make a list of the things that you need to do in any given day, week or month, and then number them in order or importance. Then, next to each item, put the amount of time that each of these would approximately take. After all of the items on the top part of your list are taken care of, is there still time for the less important ones? If so, good. If not, then these are the things you could have to eliminate from your schedule, even if temporarily.</p>
<p>Remember that it is very true that the small things matter. All of the little things during the day that you do not even think about, such as taking an extra long phone call when you need to be getting work done, or even something like doing that extra load of laundry when what you really wanted to do was spend some time with your child. </p>
<p>These are the things that add up at the end of the day and make a large portion of the wasted time that you sometimes cannot account for. A good idea to help you see where your time goes is to </p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>��Take one or two days during the week or month and just list everything you do throughout the day. <br />��Put down what you are doing and the amount of time you do it. <br />��Then when the week or month is over, look over your list and see if there are any smaller things that you could have eliminated. </p></blockquote>
<p>This will show you more clearly than merely trying to think back and remember. And it will give you the opportunity to make changes in these areas.</p>
<p>Self control is the last important thing. If you make a plan, you have to remember that it will never work if you do not stick with it. The rules you make have every reason to be very effective, but only if you follow them!</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-springfiled-65803-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Springfield Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1022" title="Managing Your Mystery Shopping Jobs">Managing Your Mystery Shopping Jobs</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Managing_Your_Mystery_Shopping_Jobs.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Get Your Tenants Involved In Property Maintenance]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Get_Your_Tenants_Involved_In_Property_Maintenance.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Like many aspects of property management rentals are a piece of the over all financial puzzle when it comes to making money from your investments. If you are in the business of property management rentals will be a huge and constant consideration not only in investment of time but also investment of money and the work involved in updating and maintaining the properties. Consideration should be made to ensure that the tenants of the property, be it a commercial property or a residential home or building, are satisfied with the appearance and the effectiveness of the upgrades and improvements that have been made and that you are responding to the needs of your customers as well as the structural and mechanical needs of the buildings themselves. </p>
<p>For the person who is in charge of property management rentals will require constant upkeep to keep the costs of maintenance down as low as possible. By properly maintaining the structure, inside and outside, and by doing preventative maintenance on a fairly regular basis, you may be able to side step costly repairs that come as a result of neglecting problems for too long. </p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p><em>For example,</em> yearly inspections of the condition of the roofing and the shingles will eliminate having to have the entire roof replaced, since you will be able to spot problem areas and do minor repairs throughout the years. In this way, you can extend the life of the roof by preventing major damage. </p>
<p>The same holds true for basement foundations, pipes, duct work, perimeter fencing repairs and other internal and external aspects of a building. </p></blockquote>
<p>Regular preventative check ups and maintenance is always best, even if it means that you have to spend additional time once every six months to a year. In the long run, you are saving yourself hefty sums of money. When your business revolves around property management rentals provide a majority of your income and the upkeep should be taken seriously for both you and the people who rent from you to benefit the most from your investment. </p>
<p>Renting to responsible tenants, fixer upper types who take responsibility for cleaning up and maintaining the property, sometimes at a reduced rate of rent, is another way to cut your maintenance costs. Unfortunately, there is no real way to know for certain whether or not they are holding up their end of the bargain, unless you keep tabs on their maintenance yourself. Regular inspections at lease renewal time might be your best bet. </p>
<p>It is easy for a tenant to commit to something in anticipation of lower rent and then neglect to do what they have committed to, be it cleaning the gutters or patching a leaky water pipe. By allowing your self and your renters to neglect the problems over a long period of time, you are most certainly going to have to pay more in the long run to have the problem fixed. </p>
<p>Under the umbrella of property management rentals take up quite a bit of space. Be proactive and manage your business by managing the small tasks regularly, and you will be less likely to be caught off guard with a major repair expense. It is your business, and ultimately your responsibility.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-springfiled-65803-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Springfield RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1023" title="Get Your Tenants Involved In Property Maintenance">Get Your Tenants Involved In Property Maintenance</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Get_Your_Tenants_Involved_In_Property_Maintenance.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Your Hard Work Pays Off]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Your_Hard_Work_Pays_Off.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>No matter what you hear out in the business world, it is hard to make a buck these days. You need to be able to come up with ideas that no one else has thought of or beat other companies to the punch. If you are looking for a magic fairy to grant you three wishes of success, then you need to return from never, never land.</p>
<p>Running a business is hard work. You have to put a lot of your heart and soul into what you do. Many people say that you have to have priorities in life and working or your job is a low priority. In reality, working and your job should be one of your highest priorities. Family, your choice of faith and your friends are the most important things that most people look at. Without your job and without income, your faith is tested and your family goes through hard times. Most business owners understand that and know they have to make decisions within their company to grow the bottom line. </p>
<p>How much are you willing to spend to see the maximum return? Many people feel that they need to spend a lot of money in order to get a big payoff. When the truth is if you invest well, you will get a great value out of your investments. People use a <font color="#990000">mystery shopper program</font> to find out and weigh how their business is doing from the client level. You live or die as a business at the client level. If you do not take care of your clients, they do not pay for your services and if they do not pay for your services, you do not have a business.</p>
<p>You have decisions to make. You can follow what other businesses are doing or you can lay your own path. By you using a program like a shopping program, you can see your company change for the better. Just because you use the feedback of a mystery shopper as most companies do, does not mean that you are following behind them. You can get a completely different response from the mystery shopper . </p>
<p>So much information can be given back from the mystery shopper that you can use to turn your business around. The information you receive is at your disposal and how you use it can make a huge change in your day to day business. What the mystery shopper will see and hear will not always be what you want to hear. The great thing about having them on your payroll is that they are an unbiased opinion on what they see. Having someone on your staff that is affiliated with you and the company might not give you tough criticism that you might need.</p>
<p>Sometimes a gentle push in the right direction can help a determined business turn for the better. A client can really appreciate knowing that the company they are investing in is taking all the necessary steps to grow the business. When it comes to being smart with their money investors want to know that their money is being invested well.� No one plans to lose money when they are trying to conduct and grow their business. When you are not being successful, what do you do then? Seeing the money stopping from flowing as well as it once did is not pretty site and could also mean the end for you as a business owner. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-springfiled-65803-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Springfield Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=547" title="Your Hard Work Pays Off">Your Hard Work Pays Off</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Your_Hard_Work_Pays_Off.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Ways To Spruce Up Your Investment Property]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Ways_To_Spruce_Up_Your_Investment_Property.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Love At First Fright</strong></p>
<p>On your way to work one day, you spot it. It is a <strong>For Sale</strong> sign out in front of a home that must be at least fifty years old. You have been eying this house ever since the last tenants moved out over a year ago. The home is dirty, needs obvious work and the yard is a mess. Glassy eyed, you do not see all of these as hindrances, or reasons to keep on driving. You see a possible <strong><font color="#990000">investment property</font></strong> . A few weeks later, the deal is closed and you have got yourself a fixer. Now what? </p>
<p><strong>Bargain Hunting For Repairs</strong></p>
<p>Now the fun stuff begins. How do you turn an investment property from shabby to shining, from dirty to delightful? After all, the point is to make a profit, not just plug a bunch of cash into it and hope for the best. It is time for you to get down to the business of renovating your new purchase. The <strong>roof and the foundation</strong> are strong, so no worries there, but the inside is a mess. Years of wear and tear on the carpets, holes in the walls and dingy floors are common in a well lived home, but a buyer does not want them. <strong>Floors</strong> first. Look for sales on <strong>carpeting</strong> or perhaps <strong>laminate wood flooring</strong>. Get your floors looking sharp and shiny and the whole house perks up. Next, the <strong>walls</strong> need some attention. An investment property will sell much easier if it that sense of newness is there. If those holey walls could talk, they would be saying ouch. <strong>Patch up any holes</strong>, plug up all of the nail punctures and old curtain rod marks and throw up some pretty paint. </p>
<p><strong>Money Makers</strong></p>
<p>Now that the floors and walls are done, your investment property should look and smell clean and bright. Give the <strong>kitchen and bathroom</strong> both a nice make over. Buy the most cost effective, yet still the best quality <strong>appliances </strong>that you can find. Search out the bargains. In the long run, you will profit from a good, thorough search for the best prices. Replace old, stained <strong>sinks and counter tops</strong> with something more contemporary, and again, always find the best quality at the lowest prices. At closing time, that becomes money in your pocket. </p>
<p><strong>The Devils In the Details</strong></p>
<p>When the big basics are completed, it is time to begin thinking about the <strong>special touches</strong>, the little glittery specks that give a show stopping impression when a buyer walks through the door of your investment property . <strong>Ceiling fans</strong> add flair as well as usefulness to the home. New <strong>light fixtures</strong> can subtly alter the appearance of an entire house. <strong>Hardware</strong> such as towel racks, door knobs, cabinet and drawer pulls and even light switch plates are all small things that can pay big. You do not want to go crazy here, because these small things can certainly add up in price, and many times a new home buyer wants to add special touches of their own. A little sparkle goes a long way.</p>
<p>Now for the outside. <strong>Curb appeal</strong> is key here. Rent a pressure washer and clean off all of those years of dirt and grime. Paint the exterior trim, cut low hanging branches off of the trees, clean up that yard and make certain that the front entryway is welcoming visitors in a way that exudes warmth and charm. Clean any old oil marks or spills out of the driveway. Dirt of any kind will turn a potential buyer off. They see it as a mess that they will have to deal with, and they simply keep looking. Give attention to the windows, and even the mail box.� </p>
<p><strong>Take Your Check To The Bank</strong></p>
<p>Put some time, a lot of bargain hunting and a good chunk of effort into your investment property and <strong>watch it pay</strong> big dividends in a short period of time. You might make enough profit to turn around and feed your renovation addiction by purchasing the house two blocks over that just went on the market.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-springfiled-65803-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Springfield Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=527" title="Ways To Spruce Up Your Investment Property">Ways To Spruce Up Your Investment Property</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 28 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Ways_To_Spruce_Up_Your_Investment_Property.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Real Estate Management Fees]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Management_Fees.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>The property investor has decided to hire a management company to take care of their many properties. They interview several before making a decision on the company they will hire. There are many things they will be comparing, among them the real estate management fee the company charges. The investor needs to determine whether they want to pay a monthly percentage or a flat fee for the managers services. </p>
<p>Investors should look at more than the monthly fee they will be paying. Sometimes for a higher percentage you will receive more services. The cheaper rate of some managers does not include the extra fees charged. Find out if the advertising is included in the normal fee. Will they be charging each time they show the property to a potential client? Are their leasing fees on top of the management fees? The investor should read each companies contract to determine what is included in their real estate management fee .</p>
<p>A real estate management fee is charged based on a percentage of income collected with a minimum monthly base fee. Fees will often vary by the type and size of the property. Fees can be a flat rate for a single family home or 6 percent of the rental income for larger properties. Larger properties usually command a lower percentage rate (i.e., 2 percent) than a single family home that may be quoted up to10 percent. Fees are negotiated on a per property basis and depend on many factors including condition, location and size of the property, etc. Leasing and other auxiliary service fees are separate and in addition to the management fee.</p>
<p>The investor should ask what services cost extra. They should determine if evictions are an extra fee. The contract should state how and when the fee is collected. Will the investor be billed or is it deducted from your account? On a monthly or quarterly basis?&nbsp; Is there a cost to prepare the units for rent? And what is the typical cleaning fee on vacancies? </p>
<p>A management company performs many services for the investor. The company takes care of the daily activities of renting the property, collecting rents, accounting and monthly statements, hire contractors for services such as cleaning, groundskeepers and maintenance work as well as supervise any work. The real estate management fee the investor pays provides them with peace of mind.</p>
<p>The investor has interviewed several companies and found the fees are close in range with a few exceptions. They decide to further investigate each companys contract and references. By comparing all the services and getting good referrals, the investor can make an informed choice. </p>
<p>Interviewing the management company to determine the real estate management fee they charge is the first step to hiring a reliable company. The final cost the investor will pay the management company is determined by many things aside from the monthly fee. How well the company communicates with the investor and tenants, how they handle problems, their attention to detail in the leasing process and their ability to maintain the property in good condition all determine the investors final costs on each property. </p>
<p>Hiring a good management company helps the investor rent his property faster and provide preventative maintenance before problems become major repairs and expenses. The investor should look at more than the initial monthly fees when determining how much it will actually cost them if they go with the cheapest company.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64155-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1021" title="Real Estate Management Fees">Real Estate Management Fees</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Management_Fees.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Investments In Education Bring The Best Interest]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Investments_In_Education_Bring_The_Best_Interest.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Education and knowledge are two different things. We can receive and education and still not be knowledgeable. Think of high school students who read at a fourth grade level but manage to graduate anyway. Whether or not the education we receive becomes knowledge that we retain and use is up to each of us. That being said, most industries that are of a competitive nature agree that there needs to be some kind of standardization amongst the industry as a whole, so that individuals will be held accountable for at least a basic working knowledge of their duties. Trainings and certifications are often made available that will assist in that process. </p>
<p>The mystery shopper certification is one such offering. Though the industry itself is still in its early years, it is growing rapidly. Standards are being set that will propel this industry into its adulthood, so to speak. Companies want to be sure that they are hiring people that understand exactly what is expected of them. They want to be able to trust that they are doing business with reputable professionals. The mystery shopper certification is a measure of achievement in this regard. </p>
<p>People in the industry that have gone so far as to obtain their mystery shopper certification are proving themselves, in a sense. They have taken steps that are not even mandatory at this time. It is not required that one obtain a mystery shopper certification before they begin doing the work and accepting the shops. However, if an individual has taken the time and put forth the effort to learn as much about their profession as they can, and if they have obtained a written certificate to prove that, then it stands to reason that they see themselves as professionals and will behave like one. </p>
<p>In the future, once the industry has matured and the standards are universal, education and knowledge will become the norm. For now, though, obtaining a certificate means that you have gone the extra mile, rather than just glossed over the basics. Not having a certificate may not keep you from getting assignments, but if a company has to choose between an un-certified shopper or someone who has gone through extra training to insure that their knowledge of the work is complete, the odds will most likely fall in favor of the one who holds the mystery shopper certification . </p>
<p>It can also be said, though, that just because one holds a certificate does not mean that he or she has retained the knowledge that got them there in the first place. Remember our high school student who can not read well? Regardless of whether or not you have a certificate, doing your job to the best of your ability and obtaining glowing reports and references from the companies that you work for will be your crowning achievement in this industry. </p>
<p>Time and experience are truly the great teachers. As the industry grows and changes, the necessary information that we will be expected to know will change as well. Keeping up to date on all industry standards and working to insure that we are always a professional will raise the bar for others, too. The industry as a whole is keeping itself accountable by demanding that those in its employ work for the good of all. Mystery shopper certification is just one way that we can show our true colors in this growing and changing industry. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64155-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1020" title="Investments In Education Bring The Best Interest">Investments In Education Bring The Best Interest</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Investments_In_Education_Bring_The_Best_Interest.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[How To Make Money Mystery Shopping]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/How_To_Make_Money_Mystery_Shopping.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Get paid to shop! What? you ask. How can that be? Usually shopping involves spending more money than people care to admit, not increasing ones cash flow. Yes, this is true, but mystery shopping is a whole new animal. With mystery shopping it is possible to actually get paid to shop. It is also a fun, interesting and easy way to pick up some extra money while giving yourself permission to get out there and experience the services that your local community has to offer and report back what you found satisfactory as well as what you found displeasing. Essentially, not only do you get to eat and shop while you make money, but you also get to complain about crappy service! Wow! You probably do all of those things already, you just do not get paid for it. </p>
<p>If you do find a certain wicked satisfaction in pointing out an establishments flaws, it is likely that the last statement got your attention, and attention to detail is one of the skills that you will want to posses if you decide to begin mystery shopping . Understand, though, that it is not a brutal verbal or written hack fest or a barrage of negative statements about a company just because you did not like the food. The ultimate goal is not to see which of the best restaurants you can be assigned to eat at or which of the finest department stores you will be chosen to do your report on. The ultimate goal of mystery shopping , aside from you making money, is to report your experience as a customer honestly, with clarity, detail and non biased feedback. </p>
<p>You do not simply say The food was okay. The lady was nice. I like the clothes, etc. The reports are based on actual details of the experience, such as the trash cans were overflowing, the counter tops had crumbs of food on them, and it took 12 minutes to be seated, the waitress got my order right without having to write it down, the salad was warm, etc&nbsp; not your personal or critical opinion. Places that you may be asked to report on vary, and can include fast food and full service restaurants, retail shops and video rental stores, gas stations, movie theaters and even hotels, casinos and health clubs. Any business where customers are greeted and serviced in some manner can potentially be an assignment. You may not make a million dollars doing it, but you will be paid, provided you do not go over your budget and just buy stuff for the sake of buying it. Remember, you can shop for yourself later. When doing an assignment, your attention to detail, your time management skills and your openness to receive information are the critical factors, not the color of the dress you are trying on. </p>
<p>If you are a detail oriented person who has a flexible schedule and the ability to manage your time well, mystery shopping might be something for you to consider when looking for unique ways to make money. In doing so, you will be fulfilling a great need in your local community by assisting many companies in improving, and you will also be paid to eat and shop. It truly is a win-win situation. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64155-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=546" title="How To Make Money Mystery Shopping">How To Make Money Mystery Shopping</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/How_To_Make_Money_Mystery_Shopping.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Life Management Skills]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Life_Management_Skills.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>How successful are you in managing your life? By asking yourself a few choice questions and answering them honestly, you can determine the strength of your life management properties and skills. Such skills can include your habits and preconceptions, and can change according to your external circumstances as well as you personal growth experiences. Do you do what you say that you are going to do? Or do you make excuses? Do you believe what others want you to believe? Or do you make fundamental distinctions based on traits and ideals that are measurable and observable in your own mind? Honest analysis of where you see your place in this world is key to understanding the essence and attitude that come as a result of you following your internal direction. This happens automatically when you do not rely so much on other people to tell you what and who to believe. </p>
<p>There are specific characteristics that are evident in an individual who has reinforced the importance of home management properties and skills. These skills include the organization and cleanliness of your home environment. Clutter and disorganization can point to stress resulting from job responsibilities or stale relationships, either with oneself or with others. Maintaining a clean and safe living environment opens the door for peace of mind and relaxed comfort. You must create for yourself a safe haven, a respite from the busy world. It is important to be relaxed when you are in your own home. If the energy in your home is discordant or negative, anger and resentment will be the likely result, and it will manifest itself in many inconspicuous ways. </p>
<p>Anger management properties and skills are valuable in such situations. When you feel threatened or angry, the resulting actions can be harmful to yourself and to others. Though it is not necessary to be a martyr for peace all of the time by sacrificing your own ideals and morals it is wise to allow other people the right to disagree with you and accept that they will do so. This is an important step in rising above anger and discontent. When you know your place in this world, and you are okay with that, you allow others to have their place, as well, even if it may not harmoniously jibe with yours. There is enough room for all points of view. Unchecked anger leads to disease and a lifetime of unresolved issues. They crack and disintegrate the foundation of your soul if left to rot within you. </p>
<p>Using good time management properties and skills is a great way to act on your inner sense of responsibility to yourself. When you show up on time for appointments and obligations, you are living with integrity and showing respect for those whom you have scheduled to meet. To be constantly late is a sign of being undependable and it breaks trust with those who have chosen to engage with you. Do not be late.</p>
<p>Managing life by managing your home, your time and your anger are all skills that can be developed with patience and intention. Throw all of these things into one big proverbial pot and you have a variety of resource management properties and skills from which to draw. Using good judgment and understanding that sometimes you will make mistakes is a graceful way to accept and love yourself while still managing your life and accomplishing the tasks that you set for yourself. You are not perfect, but with conscientious action and self respect, you can feel one hundred percent invested in your own growth and development.<br />�<br /><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64155-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=526" title="Life Management Skills">Life Management Skills</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Life_Management_Skills.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Storage Is Necessary For Your Kitchen Remodel]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Storage_Is_Necessary_For_Your_Kitchen_Remodel.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You have finally decided to remodel your outdated 1960s kitchen. You are nervous about beginning the task. How will you and your family function in a mass of construction materials? Where will you keep your treasured heirloom china and other kitchen decor? The first steps you consider are your storing options. You do a little local and online research to find the vast array of options. One option for storing is to use personal mini storage spaces. You decide to research further. </p>
<p>You realize that remodeling your kitchen can be a huge, exhausting task, or it can be a somewhat enjoyable experience, with only an insignificant disruption of your familys daily life. The benefits of remodeling your kitchen can add value to your home. Many are hesitant to begin a remodeling project for disruption it may cause in their life for a long period of time. But it does not have to be this way. A well thought out plan ahead of time helps your project move smoothly. Plan every step from the appliances and cabinets to where you will keep your items while you are remodeling. </p>
<p>During your research you find there are several types of personal mini storage spaces available. Lets look at a few of them. <br />&nbsp;<br /><strong>Facility</strong><br />A facility specifically designed for personal mini storage or business equipment. These facilities are often designed as garage type buildings located conveniently. Many have storefront or office fronts. They can be made so they control the temperature and humidity levels of the unit to protect your belongings. They range in size from small to large enough to hold your RV. They can be rented for as long as needed on a monthly basis.</p>
<p><strong>Mobile<br /></strong>Mobile units are designed for convenience. A portable unit is brought to your home for you to fill at your leisure. The unit can either be left at your residence until you no longer need it or stored in a warehouse facility. These units are safe and access to the container is available any time at the stored location or your location. They come in a variety of sizes, the most common being 5 feet by 8 feet by 7 feet. The cost depends on the area and the size and rented on a monthly basis.</p>
<p><strong>Personal Containers<br /></strong>Containers are a small type of personal mini storage . They are the containers found at most retail and dollar stores. These types of containers are often made of plastic and come in a wide variety of sizes. They are a good size for storing dishes and linens and can be stacked to save space. Other types of containers are available through your local moving company. They sell heavy duty corrugated boxes specifically designed for storing your possessions. They come in a variety of sizes and designed for specific purposes. There are clothing boxes, jumbo boxes and china barrels to fit your needs. All of these containers can be stored in a closet, an extra bedroom or the basement out of the way while the remodel is taking place. </p>
<p><strong>Outside Building<br /></strong>An outside personal mini storage can be built to hold your possessions while the remodeling is going on. These buildings can be purchased in a kit form or built from plans. One thing to remember is the building will remain once the remodeling is done. These buildings can be organized to hold your containers, building materials and yard equipment all in one place. They can be any size, but should be built to complement your home. </p>
<p>You have decided on the type of personal mini storage you will need during this kitchen remodel. Deciding what needed to be stored was a big factor in the type of unit you chose. You knew you were going to need a place to store grandmas heirloom china as well as all your collectible kitchen decorations. These things were best stored in plastic containers in the basement. </p>
<p>You have also already purchased your new appliances and needed to store them in a unit, so you decided on a portable unit. This way you can store the sheetrock, lumber and the flooring materials until they are ready to be used. </p>
<p>You planned well for your kitchen remodel so your family would not have a lot of distractions. The appliances were purchased, the countertops decided upon and the china stored in your personal mini storage containers. No longer will you be living in 1960. Now if only you could remember where your car keys are in all the confusion.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64153-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=917" title="Storage Is Necessary For Your Kitchen Remodel">Storage Is Necessary For Your Kitchen Remodel</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Storage_Is_Necessary_For_Your_Kitchen_Remodel.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[License Usage Issues In Property Management]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/License_Usage_Issues_In_Property_Management.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Real estate property management involves working with licensed property. The license gives the manager of the property the right to work upon the property. Essentially a license is mandatory for any person, who desires to use the property of another person. Easements and leases are given with similar purposes but the license is different from both. All the three forms of formal documents are basically agreements. Usually a license is an agreement made on verbal communication though sometimes it is drafted out in writing also. Unlike an easement it is not of a permanent nature. It also differs from a lease because unlike the latter, it cannot be set for a predefined period of time after which it becomes invalid. </p>
<p>Real estate property management is used to manage a tenement that is essentially a property that a person (other than the owner) with a license can use for a specific purpose. An easement also has provisions for the usage of tenements. In the case of an easement the owner of an adjacent property (called the dominant tenement) is benefited. It gives the owner of the adjacent property an additional right that comes due to the conveyance of that property. In the case of a license agreement the owner of an adjacent property cannot benefit from the dominant tenement phenomenon. This is because the license happens to be a personal possession. </p>
<p>Real estate property management can be the responsibility of the owner of the property or the owner of the adjacent property in the easement type of agreement. The license differs from an easement and a lease agreement, as it is a privilege given to a person rather than any right that is attached with a property that is applicable to future users of the property. It is a non transferable privilege. A lease and an easement on the other hand are appurtenant rights that can be transferred to the current users of a property. The person having the license to a property does not necessarily have to be an occupant of the property. </p>
<p>The real estate property management team may be the licensed users of a property. Their job is not to occupy a property but to use the premises of the property for specific purposes, for example its maintenance and construction of some new additions to the property. The holder of a license has only the right to use a property and does not have the right for possessing it exclusively. The licensee is given only the non-exclusive usage of a property. The license agreement is similar to the easement agreement in this respect but differs from the lease agreement where exclusive rights to possessions are granted. </p>
<p>The real estate property management professionals are the ones who hold licenses to use a property for performing their duties on the tasks. But they do not have any personal interest in any kind of ownership or occupancy issues of the property that is an essential feature of the easement and lease agreement deeds.&nbsp; The license can be regarded as a permission given by the owner of the property to a person or professional to conduct activities on the property to the interest of the owner. The owner has the right to withdraw the license whenever he wishes to, but it should be done on fair grounds. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64153-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1018" title="License Usage Issues In Property Management">License Usage Issues In Property Management</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/License_Usage_Issues_In_Property_Management.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopper Services In Your Community]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopper_Services_In_Your_Community.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>There are many businesses out there getting money from the community. No matter what you are in need of, there is a company that takes care of that need. No one business can do it all and satisfy all the needs of the customer. Many companies are looking for any kind of input they can get that will catapult them into a successful future. </p>
<p>There are many companies calling around to different consulting companies looking for the key formula to improve their current state of business. Right now, the best thing you can do is ask the customers that you serve, get out there in the community and ask questions. That is one reason people are turning to secret shopper services in order to find out and get a realistic look on how their business is serving their clients. Let us take a detailed look at how secret shopper services work and how they can benefit any business.</p>
<p>First, the thing that most businesses have to do is figure out what part of the business do they want to get a realistic view on. Depending on the business type the basic secret shopper services might not work as well. For example, if your business is solely based online, then walking into the business or calling the business on the phone is not going to happen. Most likely the right service for that type of company is to test how long it takes to get their questions answered when there is a problem.</p>
<p>We will talk about two of the basic shops that your business can use. The report process will be the same but these are two different ways that your company can benefit from secret shopper services . Those two basic shop options are the walk in shop or the phone call shop.</p>
<p>When we talk about a walk in shop, it is exactly how it sounds. An agent walks in to your business and shops you. What are they looking for you might ask. Well they are looking for the things that you want them to look for. If you want them to judge how fast they were contacted, they will judge that and report back to you. Most people want to know how fast their associate contacts you, how they contact you and what they do after the initial contact. In most retail environments, well at least the good ones, they want the associate to ask the customer questions to determine their needs so they can satisfy those needs. Then after those needs are taken care of, can they close the sale? What was the body language of the associate telling the shopper? Were they paying attention to them or were they looking around at other things? This is why most companies like the walk in shops because there is more to evaluate than just what is said. </p>
<p>The same shop can be made on the phone for your company. The only difference is that you can not see the facial expressions or the body language. All you have to go off of is the tone and inflection in the voice of the associate. </p>
<p>After both these types of secret shopper services are completed, the agent gives a full detailed report on what they heard and observed. Some shopper companies go deep to give you almost work for word what was said or record the conversation. By doing that, they are giving you the exact wording as if you were there. You as a company can always coach and train about what was said and what should be said in the future. </p>
<p>The agent does great with going after the specifics that you were looking for and more. They were listening for key phrases that you want your associate to say and they make sure that the associate is not just giving away your products or services at a discounted rate that might not be approved through you. Usually after the shop is completed, they give you a summary of the call or walk in shop so you can get a quick snap shot of what they saw and heard. You will not always have the time to read each report word for word so the summary of the findings will help you tremendously.</p>
<p>Anyone who is a savvy business owner has some type of secret shopper services in place. It may not be call that, but there is some kind of checks and balances on how performance is tracked. Companies are built to grow. By not taking advantage of the different secret shopper services available to you, could hinder your roots from soaking up the nourishment they need to grow bigger. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64153-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Boat Storage</a>&nbsp;</p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1019" title="Secret Shopper Services In Your Community">Secret Shopper Services In Your Community</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopper_Services_In_Your_Community.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopping Can Fit Into Your Hobbies]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Can_Fit_Into_Your_Hobbies.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Photography and traveling were two things that Ava loved to do. She had worked for many years to finally be able to make a profession of photography. She loved to take her camera and a lunch and just drive all over the countryside, through small towns and back roads where she could find hidden treasures of pictures just asking to be taken. When she did begin doing it professionally, she found that the reality of it was a bit different than she had thought. She had imagined it being a romantic life where she made millions by snapping ingenious pictures that she just happened to come across in her day to day life. This was not true to life at all, however. She found that it was hard work and she found that traveling, though fun, got old very fast. She was weary at the end of every day, and she had to begin doing weddings and graduations on the side for extra money.</p>
<p>Ava was not going to give up on her dream, though. But she knew that she needed a job in the meantime that would allow her freedom to travel, and that would work flexibly around her schedule. How in the world would she find such a job, she wondered?</p>
<p>When talking with a friend one day, she heard her say that she had been a secret shopper a few years ago. Ava had never heard of a secret shopper before, so she asked her friend about it. Ava found that the job name was basically also the job description. You merely pretend to be an ordinary paying customer and shop at a store or business somewhere locally or otherwise. After observing certain outlined criteria given to you beforehand and making note of it, you return home to fill out a simple report and send it to the company you work for. Ava could not believe her ears. A secret shopper ! It had been there all along and she had not even known it. What was the best part was that she would still be able to travel whenever she needed to for her own purposes, and a secret shopper position would work around her schedule, not the other way around.</p>
<p>Ava immediately applied to be a secret shopper , and after filling out some information and being interviewed, she was hired. She found that she could choose personally from a list of places to do jobs. It was basically a first come first serve basis. The woman who hired her told her that she could choose only local jobs if that is what she wanted, but it was not required. She could travel as far as she felt comfortable doing. From then on Ava took jobs that served her purpose for photography. If she would be out of town for photography that day, she chose a job shopping in a town nearby to it. If she would not be doing photography that day or if she would be doing it locally, Ava chose a shopping job locally as well. She could not believe how convenient this job was, and that she had never known it existed at all! What was more, the extra income allowed her to invest more time and money into her photography business. She could not have asked for a better solution.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64153-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City RV Storage</a>&nbsp;</p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=545" title="Secret Shopping Can Fit Into Your Hobbies">Secret Shopping Can Fit Into Your Hobbies</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Can_Fit_Into_Your_Hobbies.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Home Owner Created Problems]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Home_Owner_Created_Problems.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>When occupying a property for rent the tenants may have to face some problems created by troublesome owners. Hence it is necessary that both follow the legal guidelines set for property occupation of that place. They should abide by a written contract that contains clauses that are agreed upon by both the parties. However, there can still be some problems created by the owner and the tenant during the tenure of tenancy.</p>
<p>The owner may decide to raise the rent before the completion of the lease tenure. If one has agreed upon a fixed period of tenancy and has a written contract to that effect, clearly stating that the rent will not be increased during that period, the owner can be challenged in a court. When one is occupying a property for rent it becomes necessary for both the tenant and the owner to clearly understand the implications of each and every clause laid down in the agreement. One can hire the services of an attorney dealing with property matters to understand the terminology of the contract to the maximum.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Another problem that might arise is the owner deciding to keep the deposit. Many times the tenant tries to avoid the rent for the last month of his occupancy. This should never be done as the tenant runs the risk of being sued for doing so. If at all, one needs to take such a step owing to some valid reasons when one is in occupation of a property for rent the appropriate manager of properties and attorney should be consulted before taking such a step.&nbsp; </p>
<p>All the payments should be made in the form of cheque, drafts or using credit cards so that the tenant has a proof to the payments he makes to the owner. If the owner creates an issue regarding payments he should be asked to state his complaint in a written form. Any payments made by the tenant should be acknowledged through written receipts.&nbsp; Some states have what is termed as the tenancy deposit protection scheme that will allow the tenant to question the owner if he decides to hold the deposit of the tenant without a substantial reason. The deposit given to the owner for the property for rent can be claimed back by the tenant under this scheme without taking the matter to a legal jurisdiction. </p>
<p>Another problem that tenants commonly face is the owner visiting them without any notice to inspect the premises and for any other formal property related issues. The tenant has the right to ask the owner not to disturb him without notice. For that matter the owner does not&nbsp; have the right to restrict the visitors who visit the tenant unless there is any evidence of them directly or indirectly causing inconvenience and even harm to the owner.&nbsp; </p>
<p>The owner of the property for rent can ask the tenant to vacate the house, if the credentials of the tenant prove to be wrong, the tenant disobeys the clauses laid down in the contract and also if he does not pay the rent on time due to some unconvincing reasons. The tenant can also be asked to vacate if he does not cooperate in any important property decision taken by the owner concerning the property occupied by him. However there are certain legal rules that the owner has to follow before asking the tenant to vacate. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64153-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=525" title="Home Owner Created Problems">Home Owner Created Problems</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 26 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Home_Owner_Created_Problems.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Spring Cleaning For A Storage Unit]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Spring_Cleaning_For_A_Storage_Unit.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Ah, it is that great time of year again. When the sun sets, the colors displayed are beyond description as you are captivated by its beauty. You can not look away because you fear you would miss all its glory. </p>
<p>The clouds hover around waiting for the exact moment to open up their fury on the land below it nourishing it back to health. No one can predict when the rain will come and it might ruin the plans you have already had established. When this happens you have plenty of time to go around your house and do some cleaning. </p>
<p>No one likes to think about the areas of the house which have gotten little no attention during your day to day life. Sometimes you realize that you are about to get into areas of the house that are going to need a lot of your time to make it look good again. This could be an area that you have stored boxes, pictures, toys and other household items that you were not using at the time. Most of the time, the area in which we are speaking of is the garage. </p>
<p>This time of year people decide whether or not, the things in their garage are worth keeping or selling. You will see as you drive around your neighborhood all kinds of signs alerting you to their attempt to get rid of the stuff they longer want. Of course the other option is putting all their items in personal mini storage for safe keeping until they want to use again. </p>
<p>How great is it to sit in your front lawn and take money from people who want the items you no longer want? As you are collecting rays from the sunshine you are negotiating the price of how much your old college sweater should be sold for. The more you sell at your garage sale, the smaller your personal mini storage space will be if you decide to use one. </p>
<p>Do not let the name fool you. Most personal mini storage spaces have larger rooms available. Some people believe them to only focus on mini or small spaces. They do have those spaces available, but they are trying to emphasize the personal part of personal mini storage not the mini part.</p>
<p>If you decide to put the things into a storing unit that you are unable to sell or give away, you are getting ready to make a choice. You know your budget, and you know how much you are willing to pay based on the value you see. Many different facilities will throw a lot at you to get you to use their services instead of going down the street to their competitors.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Many personal mini storage spaces have great amenities and security features that can take care of what you hold near and dear to your heart. If you can get over the fact that you are storing junk in there, you can really focus on finding the right space to suit your needs. Most spaces have an eight to ten foot ceiling inside, so you can go with a smaller square footage space and stack it as high as possible. Take the time and understand what is going into the storing unit and that will help you realize which size and facility is the ones for you.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64145-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=916" title="Spring Cleaning For A Storage Unit">Spring Cleaning For A Storage Unit</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Spring_Cleaning_For_A_Storage_Unit.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Recognition Of A Secret Shopper In Disguise]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Recognition_Of_A_Secret_Shopper_In_Disguise.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Mystery shopper certification is aimed at those shoppers who would like to improve their shopping skills and want to become professionals in the field of shoppers in disguise. Though the system was originally designed for quality certification of the agencies which provide the services, it is currently also being used for certifying the quality of the shoppers in disguise.</p>
<p>Usually mystery shopper certification is provided by organizations and associations of the providers of the services themselves. They are some sort of self regulating authorities that try to improve upon the prevalent system and practices. It is well known that no profession can survive without improvement. So the associations of these specialized providers have designed various methods to check on the services of the disguised shopping providers and train them for achieving the best results. The certification system is not only for the improvement of the service providers but it also acts as a guide to the potential clients to choose the best in the business. This makes the process even more important as business of the service providers is also influenced by these certifications.</p>
<p>It is a fact that these shops are dependant on the hired shoppers and improvement of the quality of these shoppers will automatically improve the performance of the service providers. So mystery shopper certification is as important for the shoppers as they are to the service providers. The organizations that provide certification programs for the agencies also provide certification for the shoppers. The aim is to treat this kind of shopping as a profession and not as a hobby. So, as in any profession, the disguised shoppers need to be truly professional. These associations provide opportunities for the hired shoppers to come into contact with them to understand the process of certification and act accordingly to get certified according to their level of professionalism.</p>
<p>Mystery shopper certification is provided by the associations mainly through online processes. They call the certifications by various names but basically they grade the shoppers according to the levels of their proficiency. There are levels of those who are proficient in the basic skills of a shopper to the level of the experts who are highly qualified for the jobs and are the true professionals. Almost every shopper can achieve the expertise of the basic level and the processes are generally online, divided into modules. These modules are designed to test the very elementary skills of the hired shoppers and are easily achievable by those who are serious about their job.</p>
<p>The process of mystery shopper certification begins with the familiarization with the ethics of the trade. This is vital for becoming a successful hired shopper. These are not legal standards but are the conditions that were mutually agreed upon by the various companies who are the members of the association. The sole aim of these ethics is to establish reliability in the system so that the people who engage these agencies find the job of use and feels safe to invest in the process of shopping in disguise. Then the shoppers are tested for the basic skills like maintaining anonymity, power of observation, etc. All this is generally followed by a test of the knowledge of the industry itself. If a shopper clears these tests then they can qualify for the elementary certification level. The certification process for the experts is known to be more rigorous. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64145-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1017" title="Recognition Of A Secret Shopper In Disguise">Recognition Of A Secret Shopper In Disguise</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Recognition_Of_A_Secret_Shopper_In_Disguise.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Real Estate Software For Efficient Management]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Software_For_Efficient_Management.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Real estate investment software is used to maintain land details. When you are having lot of properties it really becomes a headache to manage them. You can employ a professional but it does not seem a profitable venture if you are having many assets. In these times investment in such kinds of software can really be a boon for you. This investment in such software offers a lot of services like reminding you about payments and receivables simultaneously as they take place. Not only this, the software even sends automatically generated emails to the tenants about the due dates of paying the rents.</p>
<p>Real estate investment software is of great help. The software informs you regarding the deadlines of contracts and agreements. The software also cut downs your time spent on various calculations of your asset. The software program can offer you a range of permutations and combinations regarding tax and other liability and profitable possibilities of investment. But you must choose the right software as per your requirement. So you must be careful before buying the software. This is essential because you are going to manage your assets worth millions of dollar. So it is utmost important for you to see if you can use them comfortably and know precisely how to use the software.</p>
<p>You must check out a few technical factors before settling with real estate investment software . The graphic unit interface or GUI can help in your dealings by comparing and contrasting the corresponding financial data of many assets at a certain point of time. This helps you to save time by rapidly finishing the process of communication with the server. You can also check out the details about the price and can negotiate a good bargain. Another thing you must keep in mind before buying the software is that you must first be aware of different versions of the software available in the market. Once you are aware of the available versions, you can be sure which version shall best suit your purpose.</p>
<p>If you have made up your mind to buy the real estate investment software first of all you find out the features like money back guarantee, warranty and other service conditions you can get with the software. This is quite vital as so that you don not have to think twice before you decide to replace the software, for this can have a huge impact on your investment in properties. Also check and analyze the type of calculations which the software can do. The software must be able to update you about the present value of your asset as well as forecast what will happen in the future. These statistics are very important for the successful running of the business.</p>
<p>Real estate investment software provides the basic tools for analyzing and assisting in the process of decision making. Some of the popular versions consist of property tracker plus and other specialized features. Before you buy the software always compare the competitive advantages among different products and then choose the one that best suits your purpose. One of the biggest advantages of these property software programs is that it saves your valuable time and money. These special purpose investment software is very cheap as per the services it offers. The specialized software programs cost around 150 to 200 US dollars.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64145-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1016" title="Real Estate Software For Efficient Management">Real Estate Software For Efficient Management</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Software_For_Efficient_Management.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[The Rippling Effect of Secret Shopping]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/The_Rippling_Effect_of_Secret_Shopping.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>As a human being, you have the capacity within you to live true to your vision. What your individual vision is and how you choose to carry it out, however, are determined by you. Choosing jobs that can make a difference in the lives of others is one way that you can live your vision. Secret shopping is one such job, though you may at first miss the connection. How does secret shopping make a difference in the quality of other peoples lives?&nbsp; It does so by pointing out the superstars, as well as the potholes, in a company or organization. The magnificent effects of secret shopping grow bigger the farther out they spread, just like ripples on a pond. </p>
<p>For example, say that Allison has her intention set on doing her very best secret shopping assignment, which happens to be a rather mundane trip to a local pizza parlor. Allison goes into the pizzeria, pays attention to detail and takes excellent mental notes about the fact that the shop was busy. The mentally marked that she had to wait for several minutes before she was greeted and seated, and the girl who brought her water to the table was very short tempered, nearly spilling it as she slammed it on the table. Allisons list of what could be considered complaints was long, but she knew that this was for the overall good of the company. </p>
<p>The waitress, though she was obviously busy and short on time, was extra exuberant and made jokes, smiled and tried her best to be prompt and attentive, which Allison also made notes on. Overall, the experience left Allison feeling that the restaurant could indeed use some more help. The kitchen looked rather messy, and she noticed greasy pizza pans piling up to the side of the sink. However, the young waitress had been superb. Allison left feeling that she had some very good feedback to offer this company. She turned in her report, and the ripple effect began. </p>
<p>After receiving the report, the manager hired several new employees, and using the acclaimed waitress as their mentor, trained each of the employees to deal most effectively with the customers. The waitress had her self esteem go through the roof, and her good vibes rippled out to others. The new employees felt good about their jobs, and there was a new sense of pride in the shop that had been missing previously. The shop was cleaner. Dishes did not pile up. Customers were immediately greeted, seated and well taken care of, thus they left happier, tipped better and the shop began to thrive. </p>
<p>Like ripples on a pond, what began as an inconspicuous job assignment soon had affected hundred of peoples lives. Secret shopping is only one of thousands of jobs that can be done with pride, attention to detail and attentiveness to other people and their needs. No matter what your job may be, make it your intention to treat other people as you would like to be treated, and show them the respect and gratitude that you, yourself would like to have. This is a magnificent way to live a life of purity of purpose. Intend peace, good communication, understanding and gratitude, and you will watch those characteristics ripple out, on and on, and return right back to you tenfold. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64145-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=544" title="The Rippling Effect of Secret Shopping">The Rippling Effect of Secret Shopping</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/The_Rippling_Effect_of_Secret_Shopping.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Jobs You Can Work Around Home School]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Jobs_You_Can_Work_Around_Home_School.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Fay decided to home school her children when she realized that the school system they were in was much inferior to her expectations. She did not want to leap into anything immediately, but did a lot of homework on home schooling and found that it was even better than she had hoped. She realized with relief that with her job as a local property manager , she would still have plenty of time to educate her children at home. A property manager of the type that she was could make her own hours, and this is what Fay planned on doing in her property manager position.</p>
<p>Her children, Lina and Axton, were excited that their mother would be able to keep her job as a property manager as well as home schooling them. They had mixed feelings about leaving public school. Lina, who was older than Axton, felt that though she had formed many good relationships at school that she would miss on a daily basis, she had really been missing quality one on one time with her teacher whenever she had a question about schoolwork. She knew the teacher could not help this, but she would be very glad to have her mother for a teacher now, and even with her job as a property manager , still get much needed personal time for help with her schoolwork. </p>
<p>Axton, on the other hand, was rather more skeptical about it. He was getting to an age when he had a lot of friends at school, and he did not really care so much about his schoolwork. So it was his friends he felt he would be torn away from, and Fay realized he would feel the loss hard.</p>
<p>Fay told her children that they would by no means lose their friends. Though they might not see them during the school time hours, she encouraged them to invite their friends over after school or on weekends. Also, as a huge bonus, Fay informed them that they would be joining a group of other home schooled children in the local area who met at least twice a week for fun activities and study groups. This would be another way to form friendships for Axton, and it was a way for Lina to have others to study with. They were both gaining greatly from this situation and Fay was very happy when it worked out great.</p>
<p>After having home schooled for a semester, Fay sat her children down to ask them where they stood and how they felt about it. They both had good reports to make. Lina was getting as much study time as she needed, both through the group they were a part of and through the more devoted teaching time with her mother. Axton had made plenty of new friends and even kept most of his old ones, seeing them nearly every weekend now. He found that you did not need to go to the same school in order to make a true friendship last.</p>
<p>Fay of course was happy because her children were happy. Had this not been her original goal? She had found the pros of home schooling, and had tried successfully to make the cons into pros. Seeing her children happy in their childhood friendships and yet still getting top quality education in a stress free environment was what mattered most to her.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64145-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=524" title="Jobs You Can Work Around Home School">Jobs You Can Work Around Home School</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 25 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Jobs_You_Can_Work_Around_Home_School.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Buy A Boat - Let Storage Take Care Of The Rest]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Buy_A_Boat_-_Let_Storage_Take_Care_Of_The_Rest.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>There are many people who own boats. You might be one of them. If this is true, it is very possible that you are one of the many people as well who do not have a full time place to keep your boat. As you know, a boat is a huge responsibility, requiring attention year round even when you are not using it. A boat needs a good place to be stored during all seasons, and you will want to be able to have easy access to it whenever you like, even if you do not live necessarily near the water. You do not want to have something that is as big an investment as a boat is far from your house under questionable conditions, in a place where you might not be able to easily access it day or night.</p>
<p>If you find the right self storage company , you can find the answer for your boat storing needs. Most likely that is a self storage company at a convenient distance from you that will include accommodations for boats. A key question when someone is looking to buy a boat is the question of where they will keep it. If you are a boat owner you will know how crucial this point is, and you will also know that the right self storage company will accommodate boats among the many other items it provides for.</p>
<p>Of course the least expensive and simplest way to store your boat would be on your own driveway at your own house. This is a luxury that few people have, however. When you decide that you will necessarily need an alternative storing option, always check the measurements of the building with the self storage company you choose. It will depend on the size and model of the boat that you own what types of units you will be able to look at. Once you know this, you will have a better idea of exact accommodations and pricing for a particular unit.</p>
<p>There are many rules to follow when preparing to store your boat for the winter or for the long term. A self storage company that specializes in storing boats will most likely be able to help you with many of the tips you need to know to store your boat. Otherwise, there are plenty of websites to visit in order to learn what you need to know in detail for the safe storing of such an expensive asset. If you are a long term boat owner, you will already know such things as proper storing of batteries, removal of spark plugs, storing for the boat motor, etc. </p>
<p>If you already know that you will be storing your own boat, this puts a different angle on your options. When shopping to buy a boat, you will need to make a list of what to look for. Of course you will only be able to store the type, model and size of boat that your place for storing it will allow, so it is always best to make these measurements ahead of time and take them with you when you are looking to purchase a boat. </p>
<p>Whatever your boat storing needs, there are many options out there for you. You just need to look around and weigh them.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=915" title="Buy A Boat - Let Storage Take Care Of The Rest">Buy A Boat - Let Storage Take Care Of The Rest</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Buy_A_Boat_-_Let_Storage_Take_Care_Of_The_Rest.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Mini Storage Is Ideal For Newlyweds]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mini_Storage_Is_Ideal_For_Newlyweds.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><em>We are so proud of you,</em>&nbsp; says a proud mother to her newlywed son. <em>Graduating college, getting your masters and now you are marrying a beautiful young woman,</em> she continued.&nbsp; <em>Thanks mom,</em> John responds. </p>
<p><em>So, how long will it be before you move into your new home together,</em> his mom asks. <em>It will be right after our honeymoon, however it will be a little crowded considering we both are moving from apartments of our own with all of our items. The wedding costs so much, we barely have enough for the deposit on our new home, but we did take out a loan,</em> he continued. <em>You should see it mom, it is immaculate. I am so excited.</em>&nbsp; </p>
<p>After the honeymoon, the two newlyweds, John and Stacey rent two large trucks and begin packing their items. On the second day, the two drive the trucks 400 miles to their new home in the city and begin moving all of their furniture to the 3 bedroom, 1&nbsp;and a half&nbsp;bath home.&nbsp; Although the home was much larger than their two smaller apartments there was not enough room for all of their furniture.&nbsp; As they figure out how much they could fit into the apartment Stacey mentions budget mini storage . </p>
<p><em>What is budget mini storage</em> , John asks.&nbsp; <em>Budget mini storage is a company that will store our access items in a secure place so we do not have to get rid of the access furniture. There are many items that we do not want to get rid of, but want to make sure they are safe and secure,</em> she says. </p>
<p><em>We have never stored anything in a storing facility before what do we need,</em> he questions.&nbsp; <em>My mother stored there, let us go and take a look online to see if there is a budget mini storage in the area,</em> Stacey suggests.&nbsp; They both maneuver carefully through the cluttered house and up the stairs to their master bedroom where boxes pilled from the floor to the ceiling. John opens his laptop and searches the internet for budget mini storage . </p>
<p><em>Wow,</em> he says. <em>There is one about 2 miles from our house. Lets request a site visit for today, because we need to move all this furniture in today. We only have the truck until the morning,</em> he says. </p>
<p>They jump into the 14 foot truck and head over to the storing facility to look at the different size units. When they enter the store they were greeted by a very friendly associate by the name of Rose. </p>
<p><em>How may I help you too today?&nbsp; Are you in search for a storing unit for moving and storing supplies, because we are a one stop shop,</em> she says. </p>
<p><em>We really just need a storing unit for our access furniture</em>, Stacey explains. <em>We can help you with that.</em>&nbsp; They look at four different sizes and conclude the 10x10 unit would work well for them. They take the keys to their unit and a business card with their gate code and proceed to their house to pack up the items that are going into the store room. Around 10 oclock PM they head over to the local storing facility to find that the gate code no longer works. </p>
<p><em>What is going on,</em> says John. After attempting the gate code several times Stacey has an epiphany. <em>The code only worked until 9 oclock tonight honey</em>, she tells John.&nbsp; They leave for the night and go to budget mini storage the next morning to find the gate opening and 6 am, just in enough time to drop the truck. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-jefferson-city-65109-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Jefferson City Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=914" title="Mini Storage Is Ideal For Newlyweds">Mini Storage Is Ideal For Newlyweds</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mini_Storage_Is_Ideal_For_Newlyweds.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[What Mystery Shopping Is - A Poetic Truth]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/What_Mystery_Shopping_Is_-_A_Poetic_Truth.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You are hard at work in a in a clothing store <br />And a friendly woman comes through the door<br />She tells you what she is shopping for <br />But you tell her that you do not have any more.</p>
<p>The woman frowns and says <em>that will not do</em><br />And her eyes gaze up to stare straight at you<br />Now is your chance to pull it through<br />And assist her like your company expects you to.<br />&nbsp;<br />With kindness and a smile you say<br /><em>I know that you wanted one in gray<br />But Id like to suggest to you, if I may<br />The teal one here is beautiful, too<br />I think it would look really good on you!<br /></em>&nbsp;<br />Her eyes sparkle at the compliment<br />And in a flash her money is spent<br />Bag in hand she is pleased as punch<br />And she writes her glowing report over lunch. <br />&nbsp;<br />Your boss gets the report later on that week<br />He mentions you at the company meeting as he speaks<br />You are a shining star in his company<br />You are recognized for all to see.<br />&nbsp;<br />What is mystery shopping ? It is a way to distinguish the superstars in your company from the <em>just get this over with</em> mentality that many employees bring to work with them each time they walk through the door. There <em>are</em> people who are naturally courteous. They are happy people who genuinely want to help others and be of service in whatever way that they can. Those employees are hard to find. When you discover one within the ranks of your staff, they can be honored for their exemplary service. They are the example that you want others to follow. <br />&nbsp;<br />What is mystery shopping ? It is a tool that business owners can use to bridge the gap between excellent and mediocre service. The reports received on performance and cleanliness are perfect for creating additional training and support. If your employees do not know what your expectations are, how can they be expected to carry them out? <br />&nbsp;<br />What is mystery shopping ? It is a method of measuring the compatibility of your companys mission statement against what is actually happening on a day to day basis within your store or business. When the boss is looking, everyone is on their toes. It is those moments where the pressure seems to be off that the measurement really needs to be taken. This is where your companys integrity may be at stake, and if you do not know about it, your public image could be at risk, as well.<br />&nbsp;<br />What is mystery shopping ? It is honest, non biased feedback and it represents a snapshot of what your customers see, hear and feel when they walk through the door on any given day. Are the counter tops cluttered? Are there clothes falling off the racks? Are the tables bussed? What does the environment say to your patrons? Above all else, do your customers feel welcomed when they step through the door?<br />&nbsp;<br />What is mystery shopping ? If you care about moving your business forward, it is necessary. If you care about your employees and strive to train them to meet your expectations, it is crucial. If you care about your loyal customers and you want their wonderful experience to ripple out infinitely, reaching other people who will become patrons as well, it is an absolute must for your business.&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;<br /><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1015" title="What Mystery Shopping Is - A Poetic Truth">What Mystery Shopping Is - A Poetic Truth</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/What_Mystery_Shopping_Is_-_A_Poetic_Truth.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Plan A Career With Property Management Classes]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Plan_A_Career_With_Property_Management_Classes.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Mark had only gone to college for two semesters. When he was a senior in high school he had originally planned to obtain his four year degree in business and find a good paying job after graduation. As life is hard to plan to the details, Mark met with some unexpected things along the way before he could complete his plan of college and a career. When he was a year into college he had to drop out because of many issues, including money and also family problems. He took on a desk job at a real estate company that made decent enough money, but he knew in the back of his head that this was a job that would take him nowhere in the long term, and nothing to offer him except a cost of living raise every year or so. This was not what he wanted to do with his life.</p>
<p>So Mark took control and decided that though his old plan would probably never come to fruition, that did not have to stop him from making a new one altogether. He got online one night and searched for online and short term degrees that would take him in the general direction he had wanted to go those years ago in high school and college, and he eventually found what he was looking for. </p>
<p>He came across a site that offered property management classes . It was completely online, which meant he would not have to travel to and from school.&nbsp; And it would only take a year or less to complete. Mark realized that within a couple of years he could probably find a job and work his way up in it with experience, but he knew that a degree such as the one he could take with property management classes would take him further faster, and this is what he wanted.</p>
<p>The property management classes that Mark began to take soon thereafter were designed specifically with distance in mind. They were easy to follow and since everything was online, Mark was able to check his grades and assignments at any time necessary, night or day. What was even better was that with the school he decided to go through, the property management classes had no set time. He was able to set his own schedule and work at his own pace, turning in assignments and taking tests whenever had had time in his busy schedule. Mark was also thrilled to learn that all of his tests and assignments were open book and open note, as the course focused more on actual learning and researching.</p>
<p>With the real estate position that Mark currently held, he was learning about certain business and managing tactics already. But he knew that with the property management classes he was taking in order to obtain a degree and certification, he would have the means to jump immediately and actively into the competitive job market as soon as he graduated. The courses would allow him to learn things now, the same things that being on the job might take years to find out.</p>
<p>After a year had gone by and Mark had graduated with his degree and certification, it took him only a couple of months to find a job that he wanted. It was one that had enormous potential, and his employers were very impressed with his enthusiasm, his degree, and the fortitude Mark had shown in taking the initiative to take control and do what he wanted with his career.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1014" title="Plan A Career With Property Management Classes">Plan A Career With Property Management Classes</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Plan_A_Career_With_Property_Management_Classes.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Rising Costs Of A Home Based Business]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Rising_Costs_Of_A_Home_Based_Business.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Bills are piling up, child care expenses are through the roof and your sense of self has disintegrated into a pile of paperwork at your bosses feet. You feel more like a wage slave than a successful human being, and no matter how many hours worth of work you put in, you always come away with too much month at the end of the money, as the saying goes. You hate your job, and you want nothing more than to find something that you can do to make money from home. You want the perfect home based business . </p>
<p>You may have seen the get rich quick schemes, and even fallen for one or two. You may have tried taking surveys on the Internet only to find yourself sitting for hours and hours answering ridiculous questions and getting nowhere fast in the realm of payment. Perhaps you signed on with a multi level marketing company only to find out six months and 900 dollars later that the man who created it has been arrested for credit card fraud in the past. Chances are high that you have tried at least a few so-called opportunities in your quest for a home based business that meets your needs and pays your bills. And you are not alone.</p>
<p>Millions of people long for a home based business that will afford them flexibility, time with their children, personal freedom and good old cash. In their job exhaustion, all they can see is that escaping their awful job and returning home to work would be perfect. But would it really? There are many factors to consider when embarking upon a home based business , and legitimacy is just the tip of the iceberg. If you start your own company, whether it is an in home dog grooming business or a freelance writing career, you are going to have to put a tremendous amount of time, effort and focus into that business before it begins to generate the kind of income that will enable you to quit your day job. </p>
<p>In addition, there are costs associated with running a home based business that you may not have thought about. Your utilities will go up, as there will always be someone home. Most likely your phone and Internet bills will also rise. If you are on the go, from client to client, your fuel costs will escalate as well. And what about your children? Will you be able to adequately care for them all day long and save on daycare while you are working? Or will you be constantly pulled away from your work, distracted and unable to concentrate? Most people who work from the comfort of their home are anything but comfortable, because their home is where their job is, and there is no escaping their business.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Sometimes the answer to job overkill is simply a change of perspective. Sit and write out exactly what it would take for you to succeed in business for yourself. When it was all said and done, you would be self sufficient, but do you really have the stamina to begin and follow through with a business? When you realize the hard work involved, it may be just as beneficial for you to just seek some other kind of employment, or move to a different department at work. Sometimes all it requires is a change of heart about your job and what it does give you. </p>
<p>The point is to change your mind about the jobs that you do, not to chuck your job entirely. Stop hating and start loving the fact that you are responsible enough to hold down your job. Find reasons to like the work that you do, or change it up so that you have a fresh perspective. You can always start a small home based business after hours. Just see where it takes you. With creativity and passion for what you bring to your clients, you might just turn your hobby into a full time gig. Fire your boss, eventually. But until you can kick him in the can and say farewell forever, change your attitude about what you currently do for a living and buy yourself some time to come up with a home based business that you will truly love and adore. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=543" title="Rising Costs Of A Home Based Business">Rising Costs Of A Home Based Business</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Rising_Costs_Of_A_Home_Based_Business.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Are You In Danger Of Losing Your Home?]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Are_You_In_Danger_Of_Losing_Your_Home.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>With so many of the general public signing on the dotted line for adjustable rate mortgages, it seems their monthly charges are rising with the click of a mouse. Many people thought that they would be smart getting their houses first and get started with a small house payment. They figured that by the time the rate increases, they would have everything in order and they could make the payment. </p>
<p>Well unfortunately no one can anticipate what their rate will be in the future therefore not knowing what their house payment will be. Some people are in better financial places than others and were okay with paying more now to pay less later. Other people have to put their homes for sale because they are not able to pay on time. </p>
<p>It is one of the saddest things when people put their homes for sale because of financial stress. In some situations, the person has saved up enough money for a down payment in order to get their first home. They work their bodies to the bone trying to put enough away for the banks to take them seriously to get a better rate on their house. Then you have the person or people that can only afford a certain type of house based off their credit and they have limited choices in the house they can live in. Two very similar situations that can be ruined when they have to put up their homes for sale due to a falling economy. </p>
<p>No one (in Washington, it seems) is able to make sense of what is going on in the economy. Although we try to point the figure at the person in charge of our great nation, no one person has the answer to the problems we face. Although the President represents us all and has enormous impact on our economy, there are more influences from the government than him. The truth is that the average American is the one who hold the answers. The man putting 50 dollars of gas in his 13 gallon tank might suggest drilling in our own country. </p>
<p>Anyway, many people are trying to put their homes for sale on their own without hiring an agent. That can be a good and bad thing for most people. It is not easy to have enough time to show prospective customers around your home. Sometimes you will find yourself leaving work early or cutting other plans short just to be able to show your house. However, the more people you show your home to, the better chance you have to sell it. </p>
<p>Are people really saving money by putting the homes for sale and trying to sell it on their own? Usually property agents make anywhere from around 3 to 6 percent of the selling price of the house. If you think that is a reasonable amount to give away and you still make money, it is believed that you should go through an agent. Usually an agent can do more than you have time for. They can conduct various open houses, give you tips and hints on what you need to do in order to make your house sellable, and they can advertise homes for sale in many different media. When your home has been on the market too long, they can make suggestions on what the next steps are go get it sold. </p>
<p>Having to sell your home can be a terrible time if you are wanting to part from it at this time. To make the transition smoother, really look at someone doing the work for you so you do not stress yourself out on top of the sadness you feel about leaving your home behind.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-kansas-city-64114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Kansas City Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=523" title="Are You In Danger Of Losing Your Home?">Are You In Danger Of Losing Your Home?</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 24 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Are_You_In_Danger_Of_Losing_Your_Home.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Property Management Systems]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Property_Management_Systems.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>When dealing with property management systems , there are so many new options for this type of managing, and many of them are online or on specialized databases or software programs. If you are a manager or owner of properties, you will undeniably understand the complicated process you may come across with this line of managing. And if you understand the huge capacities of the internet and computers and the great help they can offer in todays business world, you will realize the importance of taking property management systems into this type of world. Not only is it much easier, it is in many ways much more efficient.</p>
<p>Many software programs today designed specifically with property management systems in mind have the ability to help make the budgeting process of this line of work much more flowing and pain free. With these types of software programs, you are capable of maintaining a complete financial idea of what your company and properties look like. The comparison and analysis options of these same software programs make them veritably indispensable to anyone who manages on a medium to large scale. This type of software often also has the ability to print off business checks, making your budgeting and accounting process much more stress free. </p>
<p>When you take property management systems to the internet, the possibilities grow even more. Residents and customers alike can log onto your customized site and have immediate access to many of the information they find necessary, as well as finding answers to common questions they have. Residents may need to file a complaint or a request for maintenance or help, and this may also be offered on a personalized web site. Each resident can set up his own account and access his own personal information at any time he might choose. If he decides to check and see how much he owes for the month, he may do so; if he wants to see if his work order has been received, he can log on and find the necessary information; and if he needs a personal email address for someone within administration or even a phone number for a specific department, he can access a list of these immediately as well. In short, many of a residents needs can be met in this simple way without first having the hassle for both you and the resident of the need to make fruitless phone calls and inquiries before the question can even begin to be addressed.</p>
<p>Web sites make it ever simpler for property management systems to collect the rent or moneys due them by offering online pay. Residents and customers who owe money for a bill and may wish to save a stamp or pay sooner than a letter would arrive may log into their personal account and with a few easy clicks of the mouse have it taken care of. Of course they will have the knowledge that their account is highly secure and accessible only to themselves, but this does not need to take away from the simplicity of the process. If a resident wants to set up an automatic online payment each month, this is also very possible and very easy.</p>
<p>In the end, both the company and the customer benefit greatly from the use of computer software and online managing.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-jefferson-city-65109-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Jefferson City RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1013" title="Property Management Systems">Property Management Systems</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 22 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Property_Management_Systems.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[The Secret Shopping Adventures of Violet]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/The_Secret_Shopping_Adventures_of_Violet.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Taking the scenic route through town, Violet was enamored by the giant fir trees dancing in the breeze. She never tired of the scenery here in the Pacific Northwest. The place she called home was fundamental to her peace and spiritual well being. She had no plans to leave any time soon. She was a woman on a mission. Her mission was to support herself without having to sell her soul for a paycheck. </p>
<p>She wore many hats to finance her life, each one of them worthwhile to her. Violets intention was peace and joy in how she spent her time. She assembled and sold flower and herb arrangements at the local farmers market each Wednesday and Saturday. This brought beauty and nature into her life as well as a sense of creativity. She also worked as a Mothers helper to two beautiful little girls, which brought her playfulness and smiles. Needing a third source of income, and looking for something legitimate mystery shopping took her by surprise. She had never heard of legitimate mystery shopping before, and her curiosity had been piqued immediately. </p>
<p>Today she was off on her first assignment, a large chain department store. Violet loved to browse through racks of clothing. Fitting rooms were a private place of discovery for her. Even if she bought nothing, it was worthwhile just to look at all of the different ways that she could choose to represent herself to the world. Going to the mall was one of Violets favorite past times. There was no way that this would not be a fun experience for her. Finding a parking space right up front, Violet thanked the parking fairy and strolled into the store, absorbing the sights and sounds around her with new eyes. She saw several retail clerks busy assisting their customers. All but one presented themselves with gracious smiles. She made a mental note and moved on to the womens department. </p>
<p>Legitimate mystery shopping required that she be professional yet undetectable among the ranks of the department store workers. Not drawing attention to herself was key. She began her assessment by pretending to browse a clearance rack marking summer blouses down 30 percent. <em>A great deal, </em>she thought to herself, noting that it was going to take some mental discipline to keep her from looking at the clothing instead of doing legitimate mystery shopping for the betterment of the store overall. She put her personal fashion sense aside as soon as she was greeted courteously by a clerk. She made brief small talk, asked about sizes, and took a couple of blouses to try on in the dressing room. She was pleased with the personal service that she had received and made a mental note of the girls name. </p>
<p>Violet took her blouses to the dressing room, all the while noticing the cleanliness of the store, and even that the trash cans behind the counter had been recently emptied. In the dressing room, she sat making notes in her notebook of the experience that she just had, satisfied with the overall service and grateful that she had only good things to report back. Legitimate mystery shopping seemed to be an easy and fun way to make money and she looked forward to her next assignment later that afternoon at a deli uptown. Just for kicks, Violet tried on the blouses before she left the dressing room. On her way out of the womens department, the young clerk thanked her for coming in. Violet smiled. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-jefferson-city-65109-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Jefferson City Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1012" title="The Secret Shopping Adventures of Violet">The Secret Shopping Adventures of Violet</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 22 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/The_Secret_Shopping_Adventures_of_Violet.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Paid Internet Surveys]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Paid_Internet_Surveys.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>When it comes to getting some dollars for your opinion, a paid survey is the way to go. Not every company offers this service as a part of their package deal. If you can find a company that is there to help other companies succeed and they offer a paid survey option that would be a good company to join. </p>
<p>Many companies are looking to get the insight of multiple customers or specific groups that may bring that company some additional revenues. Nobody as of yet, has been able to figure out every single customer that comes through their door and their exact needs. In fact there are companies that feel they can just succeed by their reputation. Unfortunately in the current world, that is not always the key success. </p>
<p>It is slightly comical how some companies feel that their name on the product is all they need to stay in business forever. Some companies have done a lot of work in the past getting people to see their brand as the top brand or the top service to purchase. Most top brands rely on their quality and their history. The problem with the theory that their history will lead them into the future to success is as naive as it can be. Most top services or brands are usually more expensive than their next competitor. Their competitors have gotten smart and made some tweaks to their product or service. Now their quality is almost as good if not the same as the big brands that are marginally more expensive. For companies relying on their history to set their place in the future, you company will be history.</p>
<p>That is why some companies provide a paid survey for customers to fill out to let them know what they should do to improve themselves. Most surveys take a little bit of your time to fill out. There are some surveys that can take up to an hour to fill out. The companies want to get as much information out of you that they can possibly get that that you will consent to. </p>
<p>When companies are paying for you opinion that means that their conventional way of gaining insight is not working to well for them. There are many companies that ask you to go on line to their personal survey website to tell them what you thought about their service or products. Let us just be honest, most people through away the invite to the survey because they do not see the value in giving their opinion. If you have been to a major store that had a huge corporate backing, you will be offered a monetary gift if you can let them know what you thought about your shopping experience. Amazingly, the majority of people pass on it. They do not believe that they will get the money and they had decent service so they do not feel the need to say anything. We all know if the caller or customer had a bad experience, they would be on the phone with the mom, dad, sister, brother, cousin twice removed, and their psychiatrist. It is just so hilarious that most of the time, the customer is unwilling to share with the company or their family on the great service they received. </p>
<p>You can find links for a paid survey to take all over the internet. The key is making sure that the paid survey you take, you are honest and willing to help the company you are taking the survey for grow.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-jefferson-city-65109-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Jefferson City Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=542" title="Paid Internet Surveys">Paid Internet Surveys</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 22 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Paid_Internet_Surveys.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Property Manager Network]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Property_Manager_Network.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Property managers know that networking is a highly important part of their job. It allows property managers from every area and type to talk together and share ideas and information about what they know.</p>
<p>For instance, Josh is part of a property managers network. He oversees everything for a small apartment complex. He knows that there are good resources out there to help him, and he takes full advantage of them whenever possible. Reading books and going on the internet are very good ideas, and Josh uses these tools often. But he also knows that speaking with someone who has years or experience in this type of work is invaluable, and that is the initial reason he joined such a network in the first place. Josh found an online networking tool and now is in contact with dozens of other property managers across the state and even the country. The site also offers custom advice about specific problems that Josh finds he comes across on a daily basis. </p>
<p>Josh is in charge of financial management, maintenance and leasing for his apartment complex, and whenever he necessarily delegates to others, he strongly encourages those individuals to network as well. He tells them he cannot encourage it strongly enough, and that it is a priceless tool in this type of management position.</p>
<p>With the advice that Josh finds through his networking, he finds that he can now be more hands on than he previously had been. Before, he had been content to sit in his office and theorize about problems before he executed the answer. When he began networking and talking and emailing others about their methods and actions for certain similar problems he himself was having at his apartments, he began to see other options than this one. He began leaving his office and speaking one on one with customers and renters. He began going actively to job sites or repair sites and taking in what the problem was before delegating to someone to fix it. He began speaking personally with the people he hired to do certain jobs and then actually following up after the job was done to see that it had been completed satisfactorily with both himself and the renter. He found that these simple changes in his practices of management made him much more popular with his renters, as well as making his apartment complex a much more thoroughly and efficiently running business.</p>
<p>Josh got ideas from other property managers within his network about every possible aspect of his management, whether from a style, professional or planning point of view. Whenever had had a question or problem, he did not have to search online for a possible answer as he had done before. He did not have to try to think of someone he knew in a similar line of work who might possibly, but only possibly, have a workable solution to give him for a problem he came across. Instead, he could simply go to his network, email or call someone based on their type of management and business, and within no time at all have an answer that was practically custom made for his situation. Josh was so satisfied with his networking, he decided that he would recommend it to anyone and everyone in this line of work, and he himself would never go without it again.<br />&nbsp;<br /><a href="http://missouri-jefferson-city-65109-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Jefferson City Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=522" title="Property Manager Network">Property Manager Network</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 22 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Property_Manager_Network.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Storage Keeps Our Memories Alive]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Storage_Keeps_Our_Memories_Alive.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Chaos and disorder are abound in life. Changes in relationships, job security and living situations are inevitable, even if you feel that your life is stable and secure. How a person deals with all of the variations and changes that life throws at them is key to just how comfortable they are with themselves. When faced with something sudden such as an unexpected move or relocation, many people will spend so much time emotionally rejecting the idea of all of the choices that lie before them that they will work themselves up into a big old ball of worry. They complain, fret over and cry about the uncertainty, the unwillingness to change. These individuals are comfortable in their present situation, and reluctant to leave it. They are afraid. There are others who will embrace the dawn, as it were, and open to the world of possibilities even though they may be sad and scared as well. At the heart of life, however comfortable we are with what is going on, is change. We are constantly moving forward, constantly growing. No matter how we try, staying the same is not an option. </p>
<p>When faced with a move, people may be unable or unwilling to let go of some of the possessions that have followed them throughout the course of their lives. This is perfectly understandable. People can be emotionally attached to objects such as furniture and family heirlooms. This attachment binds them to their past, providing stability in who they believe themselves to be. And while people are not their past, each person chooses specific things that anchor their personality and form the basis for who they choose to be. Possessions help them do that. When you are moving, if you can not take it with you, find the best self storage possible. You can keep your attachments to things while still embracing the newness of the situation. </p>
<p>The best self storage will allow you easy, 24 hour access to your belongings while simultaneously keeping your valuables safe from those with ill intent. The best self storage will be convenient to your new location and affordable to your budget. If you have delicate items that are temperature sensitive, the best self storage will be climate controlled, offering an even room temperature that, unlike your personal life, will stay more or less consistent. If your items are large, such as boats and appliances, the best self storage will offer roomy entry doors and parking that is truck accessible.</p>
<p>Chaos and disorder do not necessarily have to mean destruction of the old way of doing things. Moving to a new location opens up new doors, expands your options and truly blesses you with a shift in perspective unique to your new location. Wherever you are asked to go in life, whether it is across the street or across the country, go there with grace, open mindedness and a willingness to let life show you the way. To embrace the new requires that you not cling to the old. Rather, let the new choose you, and move with it like a piece of driftwood winding down a beautiful river. You will come to rest many times, eventually pulled back into the current once again on your way to the next beautiful stop along your journey. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-west-worley-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=913" title="Storage Keeps Our Memories Alive">Storage Keeps Our Memories Alive</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 21 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Storage_Keeps_Our_Memories_Alive.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Planting A Good Property Management Business]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Planting_A_Good_Property_Management_Business.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Peonies take Caroles breath away. When she was a tiny girl of three, she would sit cross legged in the midst of her Grannys flower garden, surrounded by the fragrant blossoms of huge, luscious peony blooms in pink, white and purple. She would sit, eyes wide in wonder, inhaling the sweetness. It was where she had found peace. That was the beginning of Caroles love for flower gardens. </p>
<p>She carried that love with her throughout her life. In college she grew flowers in pots on her dorm room windowsill. To her dismay, in her chosen career in property management apartments seemed less than eager to allow beautiful gardens to flourish within their complexes. In their tight view of property management apartments relied on landscapers, professionals that would give a clean, uniform look to their land. There were few flowers. Instead were neatly trimmed hedges and plenty of manicured green lawn space.</p>
<p><em>Why be uniform? It feels so stale and contrived.</em> Carole mused as she looked out over the man made hills and neatly rowed foliage of the apartment complex. She watched as children ran through the courtyard, which was just a big green lot with nothing but a couple of young trees too small to be standing on their own without the aide of posts and wire. <em>Why clear the land and then replant a tree that will take fifty years to mature?</em> she wondered. <em>Why not plant a beautiful flower garden instead? A place where people can sit, relax and feel the serenity and pulse of nature in the midst of the city?</em></p>
<p>She thus began her quest. She knew that in the realm of property management apartments were unlikely to grant such a proposal. Maintenance fees would be higher. Manpower would be necessary to tend and weed the flower garden.&nbsp; A designer would need to be hired in order to plan and carry out such a task. From the desk of the higher ups in the business of property management apartments would not see this as a financially viable idea, and Carole knew that.&nbsp; She also knew the sense of well being that came as a result of spending just a few minutes of your day in the midst of fragrant and blossoming flowers. Butterflies and ladybugs would be a delight to folks young and old. The scents would be heavenly. She envisioned benches, winding pathways and even a covered gazebo. In her minds eye the courtyard had already been transformed, and she set out to bring that vision to fruition. </p>
<p>Carole put a questionnaire on the door of each household. It was an amazing success. Not only did she receive the positive response that she was looking for, she also received offers of help with the gardening, the design and the planting from some of the residents that lived in the complex. They became enamored with the idea of transforming the boring plot of grass that was their courtyard into a beautiful place that could be viewed from their windows and doors. </p>
<p>The following spring, Carole sat in bliss and satisfaction as butterflies fluttered around her and bees buzzed past her ears. The apartment tenants had never been happier or felt more connected to their homes. Carole thought of her Granny and the peonies that she loved so much as a child. <em>Thank You, Granny</em> she whispered softly. Even in the rigid world of property management apartments could change their cold stance and open to the natural beauty of flowers. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-west-worley-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1010" title="Planting A Good Property Management Business">Planting A Good Property Management Business</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 21 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Planting_A_Good_Property_Management_Business.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopper Rebel]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopper_Rebel.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Walking through the mall Kim, Sarah, and Ashley were ready to shop. <em>It is awesome that we were paired up together to basically shop and have a day on the town,</em> says Kim. Ashley, has been trying to sign up for more than one assignment since they all started this part time job. Kim, Sarah, and Ashley are all free secret shoppers . They rate customer service skills of different businesses and send them a report after the evaluation. However, as best friends they have never had the opportunity to do an assignment together. Most of the time they are separated when working on assignments, because the free secret shoppers have the opportunity to shop online, over the phone or in person.</p>
<p><em>Excuse me, can you assist me in finding a shoe size,</em> says Ashley sharply to the tall associate working in the shoe store. <em>Of course</em>, she responds while quickly walking over to Ashley. The two discuss shoe sizes and colors while the Kim and Sarah go next door for coffee. </p>
<p><em>She sure is pushy today, Maybe being in an actual store is making her a little big headed about this whole secret shopping thing,</em> says Sarah. Do <em>not worry about her. She is always like that</em>, says Kim. </p>
<p>After getting coffee and waiting about ten minutes they return to the shoe store to find Ashley standing over the tall sales associate with a shoe in her hand. I asked you for a size eleven not ten and a half. <em>This is not good customer service. You rolled your eyes at me when you walked in the back to get the fourth shoe,</em> she yelled. <em>This is being reported,</em> she continued while whipping out her grading report and a small pink ink pen. </p>
<p><em>What is the matter with you!</em> asks Kim. <em>This incompetent sales associate cannot seem to provide good customer service. She cannot find the shoe size that was asked her for, and she rolled her eyes at me,</em> yells Ashley. </p>
<p><em>Miss, I am not trying to be rude at all. I did not roll my eyes at you, and this is the only size we have in this style shoe,</em> says the associate with tears in her eyes. </p>
<p><em>Ashley, lets go. So sorry for your inconvenience ma�am. My friend is just having personal problems today, </em>says&nbsp; Kim. <em>Do not worry. Free secret shoppers do not act like this on a regular basis. Normally, we are free secret shoppers over the phone and online. This will never happen again miss,</em> she said as they quickly leave the store. </p>
<p>As the girls exit the mall in silence there was a great tension between them. Finally, Ashley yells, <em>Look. you guys do not need to try to save me all of the time. We have had nothing but positive feedback since we started this job and for you guys to undermine my authority is just plain rude!</em></p>
<p><em>Unbelievalbe! We try to get you to work with us. Free secret shoppers are not supposed to act the way you just did in there Ashley,</em> says Kim. <em>Although we are shopping them we are not to speak to them in a rude manner. We are supposed to shop and rate their levels of customer service. You are a disgrace to the company, </em>Kim continued. After this ordeal, Ashley stuck to free secret shopping over the phone and the others girls continued to shop weekly at the mall without her.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-west-worley-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1011" title="Secret Shopper Rebel">Secret Shopper Rebel</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 21 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopper_Rebel.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Stay At Home Moms Need Time Off Too]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Stay_At_Home_Moms_Need_Time_Off_Too.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>There is nothing more important than family. Family can be there for you no matter what you may have done wrong and will be there to give you a high five when you do something great. They can be there for you when you have your lowest point and when you are at your highest point. The thing is that they are there. In this day and age, not every family has both parents involved in the everyday life of the children. Even if both parents live in the house together, not both parents participate in their lives. </p>
<p>The world is demanding and requires for some people to work more than they want or stretch their selves so thin that they eventually break. If you have one or more kids, it is very difficult sometimes to find time after you get off of work to play with your kids because you are so tired from working all day. When your kids get to the point where they want to participate in all kinds of sporting, theatrical or parties, you are thinking how you are able to be involved in everything.&nbsp; At the same time, how are you going to pay for all the things that they will want to do? </p>
<p>Some families have decided to have one of the parents stay in the home in order to help keep life balances and less stressed. Usually the families that do this have one person having a job that can support the family.&nbsp; If you look at reports and such on the internet you will find that the mom is usually the one that stays home. Let us take a closer look on how important the stay at home mom is. </p>
<p>There are so many families that have a stay at home mom in our great nation. Many people believe that having the mom at home, life will be a lot better. They believe that mom is more organized, thoughtful, creative, and is better at multitasking than the man of the house.</p>
<p>By no means, is the role of the stay at home mom easy. Every family is different and their lifestyles are not the same. There are some moms that even though they stay at home, they still have to work or create some method of income. Some moms make telephone sales calls or do some type of business from home. So just think, in some families on top of driving everyone around, making sure the house is well kept, and trying to keep the family getting along, they have to make money for the family as well.</p>
<p>The stay at home mom is crucial to the sanity of most households. With their organizational skills, they are able to plan ahead. Most moms try to anticipate the what ifs and create plan b through z. Most moms keep the family sane by being a positive force in the home by ensuring everyone is taken care of spiritually, physically and mentally. As most of us know, it is no easy task trying to keep everyone in the family taken care of without forgetting or missing out on some event or promise.</p>
<p>At the same time, the stay at home mom has to feel appreciated and needed. They also have needs and need to relax and take some time off every now and then. They are human even though some believe they have superpowers. If you have a mom that stays home, give her the appreciation that she deserves.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-west-worley-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=541" title="Stay At Home Moms Need Time Off Too">Stay At Home Moms Need Time Off Too</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 21 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Stay_At_Home_Moms_Need_Time_Off_Too.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Green Building Management Practices]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Green_Building_Management_Practices.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>As the world becomes more aware of the impact our buildings have on the environment, a new way to build and manage has evolved. It is called Green or sustainable building, the practice of using healthier, more efficient supplies in construction, renovation, and demolition and the maintenance and operations of a building. There are various ways to implement sustainability into your building management program.</p>
<p>Each area of the building focuses on different elements. The design and operation of the building should be made to use energy efficiently through renewable sources such as wind, solar and biomass. Water is used efficiently without waste. When building or remodeling, using recycled content construction materials with low toxicity and biodegradability. Waste management is dealt with by recycling and the indoor environment is cleaned with healthier green products.</p>
<p>In the early 1990s green meant buying recycled paper and other products. Today, being environmentally green means approaching your purchases and services with healthy living and working environments in mind. Governments and building management teams are looking for ways to incorporate these environmental concerns into their everyday decisions. They need healthier buildings for their tenants and employees. </p>
<p>Being environmentally friendly includes the following practices.</p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>�&nbsp;Replacing lighting with energy efficient bulbs<br />The cheapest and easiest switch to energy efficiency is to replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. These bulbs produce 75 percent less heat than traditional bulbs helping you save on cooling bills in the summer as well. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;Modifying the water timing system for improved effectiveness<br />Having lawn sprinklers run for shorter periods at night.</p>
<p>�&nbsp;Reducing the length of time for heating, air conditioning and lighting run or by setting thermostats higher or lower according to the season. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;Monitoring and replacing filters in heating and cooling systems</p>
<p>�&nbsp;Recycling waste products</p>
<p>�&nbsp;Using environmentally safe products<br />Smart flooring options can reduce indoor pollution and toxins in carpeting. Carpets manufactured from recycled materials are environmentally friendly. They should be made from 100 percent wool or vegetable dyed yarn. Other carpet options are ones made from recycled bottles. </p></blockquote>
<p>Building management should set up a plan for effective recycling and environmentally friendly resources. Effective recycling reduces the need for new resources and lowers the impact on landfills.&nbsp; </p>
<p>The price paid for recycled material rises as the demand increases and recycling services grow. Managers can increase their cash flow and reduce waste disposal cost by taking advantage of a recycling program at their facility.</p>
<p>Paper and paper products are a widespread, growing market for recycling as well as bricks, textiles, carpet, oil, rubber, latex paint and computer scrap. Managers should look for products with minimal packaging and made with recycled products. The three arrowed symbol on the label represents the recycling loop. </p>
<p>The building management and owners need to become informed buyers of green services as well. They need to look for providers who can help them grow and change with environmental awareness. A business will need to set up a plan based on their goals of being a healthy environmentally green facility. </p>
<p>Other ways a management team can be greener is by the choosing cleaning products that are environmentally healthy. Household cleaners such as oven and glass cleaners and wood or cabinet cleaners are being produced with natural products and are readily available.</p>
<p>Being environmentally conscience in your building management goals means being aware of the products and services you purchase. Being able to offer your tenants a eco friendly safe environment can go a long way to keeping them satisfied.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-west-worley-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=521" title="Green Building Management Practices">Green Building Management Practices</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 21 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Green_Building_Management_Practices.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Mini Storage Keeps Sport Equipment Safe]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mini_Storage_Keeps_Sport_Equipment_Safe.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>We live in a fast paced stressful world and everyone needs a little recreation. Sports activities are a great way to help you get in or stay in shape and relieve stress. You will be spending time with family and friends too. But where do you store all the equipment needed for many sports activities? Many people rent mini storage spaces to keep out of season equipment organized and safe.</p>
<p>Kickball is a super game to play with your kids. The equipment needed is simply a ball and something for bases. Tetherball is anther fun family activity. The ball is tied to a pole and hangs down at hand level. Another sport that requires equipment is badminton. You need a net, lightweight rackets and the birdie or ball. Baseball is the a great summer fun sport that will require bats, balls, gloves and helmets, and bases while volleyball will require a ball and net. </p>
<p>When fall comes there is football and all the gear needed to play safe. Football players often have a lot of gear that takes up lots of space. Camping is another fun family activity that has lots of equipment. There are tents and sleeping bags, cooking and eating utensils, and emergency needs. </p>
<p>When the season ends, you need somewhere to store your equipment. You want a clean, dry space that can be either mobile or in a facility. Mini storage spaces are perfect for sports equipment. </p>
<p>If you are not into playing the sport, maybe you collect memorabilia from your favorite team or sport. Collecting requires a lot of space and you may need to rent mini storage space to keep your overflow. A favorite pro team collector creates scrapbooks with clippings about the games, their favorite players and interviews. Ticket stubs and photographs are kept in scrapbooks or photo boxes. Other items need to be stored in larger containers. Items like the team jersey, the game ball and large photographs of the team player. You may have a large collection of baseball, football and basketball cards stored in albums. If you have more than one favorite team or sport, you probably have several collections that need to be stored out of the way. </p>
<p>Hunters and golfers often collect stuff related to their favorite sport. Hunters might have throw pillows printed with hunting dogs and antler themed lamps while a golfer or horseback rider or bass fishing enthusiast might have things related to their hobby. These collections can accumulate and take over your living space. Putting some of the collection in mini storage can free up space while letting you keep the collectibles.</p>
<p>When placing your things in containers to store, you should take a few precautions. </p>
<p>First think about the location of the units. If you frequently need access, look for a mini storage located close to your residence or consider a mobile container unit to be delivered to your home. <br />&nbsp;<br />Another consideration is how much space will you need. Rent a smaller unit at a facility that specializes in storing small amounts and fill it completely instead of wasting money on a larger unit.</p>
<p>Ask about security and insurance. Do they have 24 hour security or video cameras? Will you need to get your own insurance coverage? Is the unit climate controlled? High humidity and water leaking into the unit can damage your collectibles.</p>
<p>Having a hobby, whether it is playing a sport, or collecting memorabilia from that sport, means you have lots of stuff that needs to be stored and kept safe from the elements. Renting a mini storage will free up space and keep your collectibles safe.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=912" title="Mini Storage Keeps Sport Equipment Safe">Mini Storage Keeps Sport Equipment Safe</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mini_Storage_Keeps_Sport_Equipment_Safe.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Organize Your Real Estate Clientele]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Organize_Your_Real_Estate_Clientele.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Do you know where your kids are right now? That is a phrase that used to play on a local news station asking parents if they knew what their children were doing at this very moment. Of course that was at a time in which crime was high in dealing with kidnapping and kids committing crimes because they are unsupervised. Luckily today, we as parents do not have deal with that anymore. </p>
<p>That is way beyond the truth.</p>
<p>Sometimes it would be easier for us if we could track where our children go and who they talk to. They do not need to be out away from home after 10pm. Depending on the age of the child, what could the possibly be doing after 10pm? The answer is getting into mischief. Sometimes we are right on point when it comes to how to deal with our children, but other times we might be so far off the point and our kids dislike us for it. </p>
<p>Just think how great it would be to sit down at a computer, and look at the progress of each of your children to see how they are doing in different areas of their lives. You can click on your oldest child and see that he now has a girlfriend and will be taking the ACT test soon. It also tells you the last time he did a chore or even told you that he loved you. It looks like you are overdo for a hug and kiss from your son.</p>
<p>In the real estate market, there are people who own multiple properties. There are also companies that have many different people to keep on the right track with their properties. Some of the best companies have a good real estate client management system. In real estate client management , you have to be on your game if you are the one sending in the plays. Be sure to understand that the way you take care of your clients could lead you to a multitude of more business in the future.</p>
<p>How do you get set up and maintain your real estate client management trade? First of all get organized. You will not be able to keep track of who you are dealing with, when if you are not organized. You will need a separate work place if you are working out of your home. If you have a space established outside your home, make it professional looking, clean, and inviting to potential clients. It would be a good idea in real estate client management if you had some type of program or software that could keep you updated and organized. Sometimes you might need reminders of meetings that you have set up with potential or current clients that you can not miss or you were supposed to send them a report on the progress of their property. Using some sort of email, calendar or a client tracking software could greatly improve your organization, which will greatly improve you business.</p>
<p>Dealing in real estate client management can be difficult if you are unaware on how to handle clients and their needs. You have to treat each client different because their needs and wants are different. You can set up client profiles and have a detailed understanding on what each client expects and wants to accomplish. From there, it is simply keeping them updated on what the market is doing and what is going on with their properties. The worst thing you could do is not be prepared, or able to take care of the client. In real estate client management , one or two bad referrals in this real estate market could hugely hinder your business. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1008" title="Organize Your Real Estate Clientele">Organize Your Real Estate Clientele</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Organize_Your_Real_Estate_Clientele.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Avoid Flushing Your Business Down The Toilet]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Avoid_Flushing_Your_Business_Down_The_Toilet.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Life is amazing. There are people out there that say life is boring. How can you say that? Life has so many different facets, turns, and bumps in it that you can not possibly say it is boring. You might want to look at what you do from the moment you wake up to the point where you go to sleep. Life is only what you make of it, so if you feel life is boring, put more into life and you will get more out of life.</p>
<p>No matter what the fairy tales say, there is not a magic potion available that can make all your dreams come true and make you successful. There is no point to go out to your yard or into a field to collect lots of four leaf clovers. They can bring you as much luck as the cell phone in your pocket that you freak out about when you leave it at home, on the shelf above your toilet, dangling on the edge. Just like that cell phone, it is unsure whether or not there will be a sudden shift in the earth and it will then have to perform a perfect dive in order to get a ten from the West German judge. Just maybe you might return just in time to save your cell phone from the wet and unsanitary demise it could face.</p>
<p>The same thing is true about your business. You are not a time traveler that can go ahead and see what the future state of your business looks like. Sorry, there really is not a flux capacitor or a time machine out there, so you are just going to have to be smart about what you do today and then tomorrow. So since the world could change at any moment and cause all kinds of economic uncertainties, where does that leave you and your business?</p>
<p>You have to be proactive and see what is out there in terms of gaining insight on how to improve your business in the now. There are many companies out there that are running smooth like a well oiled machine and there are companies that are holding on each day by a thread. One of the best ways available today is by hiring a mystery shopper company to do some of work for you. You might ask yourself how a mystery shopper company is going to help me in my business. That is what we are here to discuss.</p>
<p>Many do not know but there are many different aspects of a mystery shopper company . They provide such services as taking surveys of what your employees and your clients think about a particular part of your business. The more insight you get inside and outside of your business the better. The mystery shopper company can interview clients and also shop your associates to ensure they are providing a high level of service to your clients. A shop could be a simple as walking into your business, listening or chatting with your associates as if they are interested in what you are selling them, go home or back to the office and send you a report on their findings. </p>
<p>Before you react quickly to say that you do not have the budget to hire a mystery shopper company , just ask yourself do you have the budget to not have a secured future? No business has a secure future even if they plan or use the services of a mystery shopper company . The key is to ensure that they are being proactive and looking to make improvements daily before it is too late to make changes to your business. </p>
<p>Imagine having a safety net between your cell phone that is about to fall off the shelf and right down the drain. If your business were the phone and the economy the shelf, a shopping company would be your safety net. So what does that make the toilet?</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1009" title="Avoid Flushing Your Business Down The Toilet">Avoid Flushing Your Business Down The Toilet</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Avoid_Flushing_Your_Business_Down_The_Toilet.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Dad Is A Paid Shopper]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Dad_Is_A_Paid_Shopper.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Most men steer clear of shopping for fun. Men often view shopping in a negative way. They are missing out, however, on an excellent opportunity to earn money from home as a paid shopper . </p>
<p>Being a paid shopper is a great way to earn extra money. It requires no previous experience or special knowledge. The assignments can be fit into your current schedule. Even though the companies who hire these shoppers need men and women of all ages and backgrounds, the majority of the applicants are women.</p>
<p>When a man goes shopping it is for a specific purchase. They rarely come back with more than the item they went out to buy. Men decide they want something and then go to a shop to purchase it. If the item is not available, he returns empty handed. To women, this is hard to imagine.&nbsp; When a woman says she is going out shopping it is often for entertainment. She cannot possibly know what she is going to purchase until she knows what the shop has to offer. Men do not understand this concept. </p>
<p>Men do go shopping even if they do not enjoy it. There are men who frequent the supermarket, usually on a reluctant errand for their spouse while others are shopping for themselves. They may only be purchasing their weekend six pack and chips for the big game, but it is shopping. You will find men at the mall as well. Many are there to purchase a gift for the wife or girlfriend. Others are there to purchase something for themselves. Men shop for themselves when they need something like footwear or sports equipment or electronics.</p>
<p>This one track mind concept makes the male a perfect candidate to be a paid shopper . His reluctance to browse and shop just for the fun of it gives him an advantage. He is sent to purchase a specific item at a particular store keeps him from being sidetracked. He will not spend the entire day and a whole paycheck on impulse buys. </p>
<p>Many companies hire these shoppers to obtain a feedback on their employees and services. Retail chains, hotels, restaurants and banks need impartial evaluations on staff behavior, the quality of their service and the cleanliness of their shop. </p>
<p>Men are more suitable to some assignments than women. Companies needing shopper input on the mens toilet facilities, the mens fitting rooms and the mens changing room at the gym require a male presence. A female would not be a secret in these situations.</p>
<p>Other situations where a paid shopper is needed includes eating at a restaurant or having a drink at a bar. A company pays you to visit a cinema or spend the night at a hotel or even on an all expenses paid vacation. Men and women can both evaluate these types of assignments.</p>
<p>Men and womens opinions are needed to evaluate businesses. Aside from retail shops and supermarkets, bowling alleys, theatres, banks, gas stations, taxi companies, gyms and skating rinks among other services all need honest evaluations on their services. Many men frequent these types of establishments. The owners want to be sure that men, who make up over half of their customers, are satisfied with the services they receive.</p>
<p>A typical paid shopper assignment a man might enjoy would be to visit a bar, sample a beer, buy a snack and visit the mens room. Men would enjoy getting paid to drink beer and eat snacks. </p>
<p>Companies are looking for men to be a paid shopper . It is a billion dollar industry and men can get a small part of it. They can be paid to purchase electronics, go to the gym and buy beer at the supermarket.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=540" title="Dad Is A Paid Shopper">Dad Is A Paid Shopper</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Dad_Is_A_Paid_Shopper.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[The Lord of the Land]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/The_Lord_of_the_Land.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>When some thing goes wrong in your place of residence, who do you call? Well it depends whether or not you own your home or if you rent your home. If you own your home, what you need to do is get up off our couch, walk into the bathroom and look at yourself in the mirror. You guessed it, if you have issues within your home, you are the person you call. Now you have the option of trying to fix the issue yourself or you can call some one to fix the issue. </p>
<p>It is known that everyone in our great nation has an unlimited amount of income flowing into their house. Just think about it. We live in a blessed nation to where when we need money we can just call up the government and they will send a check that can greatly help your financial situation. That is great. Unfortunately, that is not completely correct. Ok, it is not correct at all. Not every hard working American has the money necessary to make adjustments or corrections in their homes.</p>
<p>For this reason you will see more people deciding not to pull out of their leases and stay put in the home in which they rent. This way if there is some type of issue, you can call on the individual managing the complex. It is not a simple job to posses, but there are some people that are built to be in the managing of properties. The property owner is the person that gets the most attention in residential renting. </p>
<p>There are many landlord services out there that can benefit the person renting. When you decide to get into a contract regarding renting, you should ensure that you know what you are responsible for or what could happen under your roof. The type of landlord services available are rent collection, tenant screening and tenant development.</p>
<p>One of the landlord services that is important is potential client renting. The service is in charge of making sure the people wanting to live in their complex are the right fit. By doing background checks and reference checks on the individuals, you can try to come close to knowing that they will honor the payment agreement. If the references or the background check does not check out, then the manager has the power to decline that application. There has to be some kind of balance that the property service has to figure out. They can not keep declining applications because they are trying to be too picky. Sometimes you do not have that inflow of people wanting to rent from you. On top of that idea, there is no guarantee to say that the customer with a flawless background will pay on time either.</p>
<p>Collecting rent and paying the property owner is one of the landlord services that is very important. The service has to ensure that the residents are paying on time and they get the payment to the owner on time to keep the building paid for. </p>
<p>Keeping the building clean and up to date on repairs are other landlord services that are provided by most complexes. Managers of a property have a tough job day in and day out. Sometimes the phone will ring off the hook with issues the residents have, but on other days, the phone might not ring. These managers provide many services to the property owner and the tenants. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=520" title="The Lord of the Land">The Lord of the Land</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/The_Lord_of_the_Land.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Canadian Self Storage Industry Has Room To Improve]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Canadian_Self_Storage_Industry_Has_Room_To_Improve.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>There is a great difference in the self storage industry of the United States versus the self storage industry of Canada. While the United States has seen growth in this industry over the past few decades, Canada is comparatively in its infancy and just beginning to see the growth that the U.S. has already experienced. </p>
<p>The positive influences of American business persons who are offering advice about what they have seen work and what they have seen fail, is, in some parts, creating a more rapid growth in the Canadian self storage industry . The growing pains of the American market can certainly be a lesson to the Canadian, and other markets beginning to develop the storing market. </p>
<p>The supply and demand ratio in the United States has caught up in many rural and urban markets. Storing facilities are typically anywhere from 75 to 90 percent full, depending on the region and the season. Whereas, the demand still largely outweighs the supply in Canada and rural and urban facilities alike are commonly enjoying the luxury of having their facilities 85 to 95 percent or more full. </p>
<p>Perhaps the difference in occupancy is a contributing factor to the vast difference in customer service between the American and Canadian industries. </p>
<p>In a study conducted in May, 2008 by a self storage industry call center in Columbia, Missouri, an astonishing 94 percent of Canadian store room facilities did <em>not</em> ask the customer for a phone number and only 18 out of 63 facilities asked the customer for his or her name. This is either indicative that the Canadian market is doing a very poor job or a very great job. Perhaps a very poor job because the lack of asking fundamental and imperative questions such as this could indicate a deeper sales and service problem rooted in complacency or inexperience. </p>
<p>Perhaps a very great job because asking for a name and phone number is unimportant, for now, to the Canadian market because they are experiencing great success with the occupancy of their businesses. Why ask for a name and number when you know the unit will be rented out within the week? This may be their mind frame. However, they should take a cue from their neighbors to the south and keep a close eye on how the market is changing. </p>
<p>The self storage industry is no secret to business owners looking for property in Canada. Like the American industry, soon enough, Canadian owners will find themselves battling with competition and looking at their sales and customer service practices to get an edge over their competitor. </p>
<p>Already, in cities like Okotoks, Alberta the market has a cluster of storing facilities within a short radius of one another. And while larger cities like Toronto can easily host a handful of storing facilities, the guarantee of filling up after the first few weeks of your grand opening is narrowing as likeminded business men and women are opening their own facility.</p>
<p>Competition is what morphed the American storing industry from a few metal sheds crafted from wobbly aluminum and chicken wire to top notch steel constructions equipped with individual alarms and video surveillance. It would benefit a new business owner in Canada or the States to learn under the wings of well established storing associations and business persons.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-west-business-loop-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=911" title="Canadian Self Storage Industry Has Room To Improve">Canadian Self Storage Industry Has Room To Improve</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Canadian_Self_Storage_Industry_Has_Room_To_Improve.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Real Estate Careers Do Not Define Us]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Careers_Do_Not_Define_Us.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>There was a man reading the daily newspaper as he sat in a corner seat at the local coffee house. His brow furrowed as his dark brown eyes glazed over the days news, highlighting tragedy and woe with each paragraph. A taste of sadness swept through him along with his swig of java as he wondered what it was all for. What is life? Why are people brought here to bear witness to and be so strongly affected by pain, hateful people and lies? Slowly his thoughts turned inward, and he mused over his own relationship with himself. Why would a man in his mid forties be so preoccupied with his professional life? He realized with a twinge of regret that he had been living and breathing the lie that he was his work for the past twelve years.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Corporate real estate management had seemed like the perfect career choice for him. He was intelligent, well respected at University and he had a well honed sense of organization, charm and seemingly unending energy to complete his projects with verve. As the years went racing past him, a marriage blossomed and crumbled before him, and his sense of style gave way to convenience, he began to question what was truly the most important thing that life had to offer him. He had watched the news every night as he had always done, as his father had done. Throughout his life he had absorbed the suffering and devastation of many natural disasters as the pictures played across the screen. He had lost friends and loved ones to car accidents and disease. He had even known a woman who had been found murdered some years back. Through all of this pain, his career in corporate real estate management had grounded him. His work had given him an identity to plug into. His work had defined the parameters of his life, paid his mortgage and included him in a social network of other professionals that he felt could identify with him and his responsibilities. Indeed, corporate real estate management was a highly respected career, and one he chose with some deliberation all those years ago. Still, he could not shake the tiny voice of understanding that life carried with it the promise of something much more vast and meaningful. There simply had to be more to know.</p>
<p>At this stage of his life he had come to the realization that he was not simply a professional business man in corporate real estate management. He was yearning to know himself deeper, beginning to identify less and less with the roles he played every day at the office, with friends, even family.&nbsp; As he stared off in the direction of the ceiling of the coffee shop, he began to feel a comforting movement in his chest. It was a warmth that began first as a flutter, but gradually expanded. It was not an actual burning sensation. It was emotional in nature, though he could feel the shift. Perhaps for the very first time in his life, on that cloudy grey morning in a small cafe, corporate real estate management became less of a description of who he was and more of an adjective of what kinds of things he had been choosing to do with his time. In a moment of personal wisdom, this previously embittered man allowed himself to open, just a fraction, to the truth of the beingness of living. He sat in silence. His mind grew still as his labels fell away. The self imposed label of corporate real estate management fell to the wayside like a clay mask, as did the labels of ex husband, son and man. His soul spoke to him as his chest filled with love, radiant in the understanding that it is not what we do in our lives that matters, but it is the intention and grace with which we do them that remains precious. He realized that he was truth, he understood that he was love. For just a moment, he knew what it was all about.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-west-business-loop-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1007" title="Real Estate Careers Do Not Define Us">Real Estate Careers Do Not Define Us</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Careers_Do_Not_Define_Us.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Mystery Shopping Jobs To Stay At Home With Baby]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mystery_Shopping_Jobs_To_Stay_At_Home_With_Baby.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>When Amber and her husband Steve had been married three years, they began to start thinking about having a baby. They soon realized that with this one little question on the horizon, it set many other balls rolling that they had never thought of. Amber had always known she wanted to be able to stay at home with her children, but until now had not thought of a detailed way this would be financially possible.</p>
<p>Steve had seen a commercial for mystery shopper services a few months back, and told Amber about it. She had heard of mystery shopper services before, but had never given them much thought, wondering in the back of her head if they were merely some sort of scam. Since she did not have a college degree or any especial skills that would allow her to keep up an income from home, she took this option seriously, and decided to investigate.</p>
<p>Amber soon found out that mystery shopper services were prevalent, and indeed, valid. She spoke with several representatives of mystery shopper services and found out as much information as she could find. She was told that, when new to this type of work, she should begin slowly, to get the feel for it. This was perfect for Amber, who was still a bit hesitant about it. She sent in her application, which was a very simple process, and eventually signed herself up for a job within her area.</p>
<p>On the day of her first job, she traveled five miles to a local clothing retail store. She had gone over the list the night before of the things that she was to look for. She had been told that the list would vary for every place she went, depending on what the retailer specifically wanted noted and improved upon. Amber was slightly nervous.&nbsp; She told herself to pretend that this was just any day that she would come here and look for a new shirt or a pair of shoes.</p>
<p>Amber walked into the store and was greeted with a smile and a hello from the front of the room. One of the workers immediately came up to her and asked how she was doing and if she was looking for anything in particular that day. Amber told her, as she was supposed to, Yes, I am looking for shoes that I will need for work, and I would like to find a purse to go with them if possible. The employee led her across the store and proceeded to assist Amber in finding exactly what she needed. Amber sighed to herself in relief. This was not as hard as she had thought it would be. Actually, it was not hard at all. It felt exactly as if she were just buying shoes for fun. She smiled to herself when she thought that she would be getting paid for doing this.</p>
<p>That night, when Steve came home and asked Amber how her job had been, she told him excitedly that it had been great, better than she expected. Mystery shopper services were definitely something she wishes to pursue, even if it was just something she did on the side. She knew from speaking with a representative that if she had a baby, she would be free to take him with her on these exploits, which is exactly what she wanted to know. Amber was so glad that she had decided to give this a chance! It could prove to be the answer to many of her problems.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-west-business-loop-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1006" title="Mystery Shopping Jobs To Stay At Home With Baby">Mystery Shopping Jobs To Stay At Home With Baby</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mystery_Shopping_Jobs_To_Stay_At_Home_With_Baby.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Earn Free Stuff As A Shadow Shopper]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Earn_Free_Stuff_As_A_Shadow_Shopper.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You take your family out to a fancy restaurant while carrying your designer handbag. The cost of the dinner and the bag is free. Well, free after the company that hired you to be a shadow shopper reimburses you. </p>
<p>Many companies hire shoppers to check on their staff. The company wants to find out if their employees are doing their job correctly. They need to know if the waitress is pleasant and responds quickly to the diners needs and if the chef cooks the same as for a regular customer as he does for the restaurant owner and management. That is why they hire these shoppers to do checks as a regular customer.</p>
<p>The company who owns the restaurant pays you to dine there and pays for your meal in return for your honest feedback on your experience. </p>
<p>Other service companies hire shoppers as well. Carpet cleaning companies reimburse you to get your house carpets cleaned. You get free pizza working as a shadow shopper for the pizza delivery companies. Who does not want free pizza?</p>
<p>Other ways to get your bills paid are by filling out surveys. The surveys are simple often comparing products or your dislikes and likes about a product. You can get your bills paid or get great gifts in return for participating in the surveys. The company is doing market research for their product and building up their customer profile. </p>
<p>You are paid for your time with gift cards to major retailers and grocery stores. Sometimes you can earn gas cards or electronics. Some companies give away free vacations. There are companies giving away free gym memberships and others who give you a years supply of pet food. All free just for filling out their surveys.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Filling out the surveys will take a bit of your time. The same is true for the any type of shadow shopper assignment as well. With the shopping job you will be required to fill out a report on your computer detailing your findings before you are reimbursed and paid for your time. </p>
<p>You will receive notification of any assignment available via email. You choose which jobs you want to do. The jobs pay from 10 dollars to 60 dollars or more. Companies reimburse you for purchases or any services you receive as well as cash for the report you turn in. </p>
<p>Restaurants, retail stores, gas stations, banks, fast food chains and hotels need the services of a shadow shopper to make sure their services meet quality standards. You are an independent contractor working for a shopping company that is hired by these businesses for your services. </p>
<p>There are many companies to apply to. The jobs can be found on the internet by doing a search for legitimate shopping jobs. Beware of scams. Never pay a fee to sign up and be wary of checks you receive before you do a job. These are often scams. </p>
<p>Sign up with several legitimate companies to get a variety of assignments. As a shadow shopper you can choose what type of shop you want to do. Some companies will provide training for their shoppers. The shopper assignments are not limited to the big city. There are big demands for shoppers in rural areas too. </p>
<p>You can earn free meals at fancy restaurants, fill you car with gas for free and have a designer handbag without costing you when you work as an evaluator for a shopping company.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-west-business-loop-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=539" title="Earn Free Stuff As A Shadow Shopper">Earn Free Stuff As A Shadow Shopper</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Earn_Free_Stuff_As_A_Shadow_Shopper.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[One Storage Manager Is Unlike The Other]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/One_Storage_Manager_Is_Unlike_The_Other.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>The self storage industry is one of the easiest industries to be a part of. Let us look at how simple being in this business is. All you have to do is greet customers when they come in to your facility, you show them a rental and then they give you their credit card. Besides that, the associates do not have much to do. Why else do you think that many people are getting involved and trying to get involved in managing property ?</p>
<p>So now, let us wake up and shift to reality. Storage is hard and it is a very difficult business to be a part of. Usually if you take a drive down the closest major highway, you can see a facility almost every other mile. Sometimes you might find two or three on the same street. If there are so many facilities, how does one facility stack up against another one?</p>
<p>That is where it comes down to the person or team managing property . For the customer to want to give their hard earned money to your facility to store, you have to give them reasons to. It might come down to price, features, cleanliness or other amenities.</p>
<p>Depending on where you live, you will have many different places to visit, evaluate and decide if that is place for you to store. Most of the time you will have to get the customer to agree that your property is where they need to store. When people call around looking for the best property, they might focus on price more than anything. Unfortunately in the market today, the power of the dollar is important. So if they can not see the value in what you have to offer, they will not rent from you. Just because you are giving away your storage for one dollar for the first month, does not always get you the most business. </p>
<p>When managing property , you have to be able to stay competitive with your friends in storage around you. A clean and well maintained facility will go a long way with different groups of customer. If a customer finds your facility on one of the various ways of advertising you might do, decides to come down to see it and it is not up to par, they will not rent. It is up to the person managing property to keep the appearance up in order to attract all walks of life. </p>
<p>What kind of security does your facility offer? Are you nice and thorough to the customer? These are all questions that they want to know and hear. As soon as you answer the phone or your associates answer the phone, the stage is set. The caller will know right away if you are friendly or you do not care about them as much as the next person. Each customer is different and the person managing property needs to understand that. </p>
<p>A well trained sales staff that can also do the tasks needed to keep the property looking good is a great combination and a winning formula. Sometimes you might find that you will have either someone that can adapt well to the needs of the customers or someone who is just good at keeping the facility looking good. When you are in charge of your property, you have to have the balance in order to take care of every customer. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-west-business-loop-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=519" title="One Storage Manager Is Unlike The Other">One Storage Manager Is Unlike The Other</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 19 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/One_Storage_Manager_Is_Unlike_The_Other.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Storage Systems To Organize A Photography Business]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Storage_Systems_To_Organize_A_Photography_Business.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Visiting a friends house for the summer, Sarah was fascinated by the pictures that were stacked on the piano, and the stairs, and the mantle, and the end tables, the top of the refrigerator, the coffee table, the corner of the countertops, stuffed in closets, hidden in boxes under the couch, poking out from under the guest bed and toppling off the computer desk. Who on earth took so many pictures and how did they know so many people? </p>
<p>Her friends mom was a photographer. She took pictures for the local University and was a favorite for senior portraits. She also loved photographing weddings. She absolutely adored taking pictures of new babies in all the cutest places and poses. She had fun with the family pets. There was nothing she would not take a picture of.</p>
<p>The thing of it was, her hobby was consuming the entire house. The family could not enjoy the beautiful pictures of their own loved ones because of all the clutter of other memorable moments lying around the house, and they did not even know most of the faces in the photos. </p>
<p>While Sarah was staying there, her friends Mom had an appointment to photograph a Saturday wedding in the park. While Mom was out, she and her friend were watching a movie. The doorbell rang and it was a customer who had photos of her daughter taken last week. She was there to pick up the finished photos.</p>
<p>As Sarahs friend scrambled through the organized chaos, she was stunned to see that her friend new exactly where to look. It seemed that the previous weeks photos get stacked on the china cabinet. Whatever is left unclaimed or leftover gets moved elsewhere to make room for the next week of photos.</p>
<p>Sarah could see the honest attempt to keep the photos organized, but there was little room to work with in a house full of antiques. But one would not even notice the lovely furniture hidden under puppies and babies and weddings.</p>
<p>Inspiration hit Sarah and her friend! They called their local self service storage place and inquired about a climate controlled unit. It was peanuts compared to the fee for taking the photos and the climate controlled environment was perfect for storing photos. They rented the self service storage place and had organized the photos by name.� </p>
<p>When her friends mom returned, she was nearly brought to tears by the feat they had accomplished. She had put the task of renting a self service storage in the back of her mind, but the thought of organizing all those photos overwhelmed her. If she had known how easy and inexpensive it would have been, she would have done it years ago. </p>
<p>The team worked together organizing by year and then name. They placed shelves in the self service storage space and stacked the oldest photos on top. Her friends mom promised to remove photos older than 5 years to the recycle bin, after sending out one last reminder to the family that they could still get more copies. </p>
<p>In no time at all, the impromptu self service storage adventure was over and the photography business was organized and much more prepared to take on new appointments. </p>
<p>And the family was able to enjoy their space and more importantly, the pictures of their own vacations, graduations and moments together.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=910" title="Storage Systems To Organize A Photography Business">Storage Systems To Organize A Photography Business</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Storage_Systems_To_Organize_A_Photography_Business.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Moving Storage - Do It Right The First Time]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Moving_Storage_-_Do_It_Right_The_First_Time.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You started your business on your kitchen table. When that became too crowded you moved to the den. Now your business is booming and your space has become too small. It is time to move to a separate building. You have furniture, office fixtures and inventory that need to be packed and moved. You worry about how you will pack these things in boxes or suitcases and keep the contents safe. A broken DVD with all your business contacts will not do you any good. Do not stress. Consider purchasing sturdy packing boxes and specialty boxes from moving companies for moving storage . </p>
<p>Your ordinary corrugated box will not hold up well under the stress of moving your belongings. Moving boxes are sturdier and designed to protect your belongings from damages by fitting together in the moving truck. You should get the boxes in the sizes you need. Book boxes for all your business books. Medium and large boxes for equipment and office supplies. There are specialty boxes for your CDs, DVDs, and computer equipment. Your wardrobe, lamp and mirror cartons are also available for specialty needs.</p>
<p>So what types and sizes of boxes are available?</p>
<p>A wide variety of boxes and containers are available to help with your moving storage needs. Each box is designed for a specific type of item. The boxes come in your basic small, medium, and large as well as specialty boxes. There are wardrobe boxes, dish boxes or china barrels, file boxes, computer boxes, picture boxes and gun boxes. </p>
<p>You can store your files and important documents in a document box designed for moving storage . These containers help you keep relevant files in the same box. Along the same lines are the smaller boxes made for packing your DVD and CD and books. They will keep your items from being crushed while being transported by moving storage company. </p>
<p>When packing your books, do not put more than 30 pounds of books in a box. Alternate the bindings with every three or four books to keep the stacks level. For your CD and DVD collections, pad a book box with crumpled packing paper. Wrap a stack of CDs in paper and put in the middle of the box. Fill in around the stack with paper or packing peanuts and mark the box on the label as CDs.</p>
<p>You are better off in the long run to purchase the correct moving storage materials for packing. Choose the right container and bubble wrap or packing peanuts. Use the peanuts and wrap for breakables. Fill the extra space with blankets or crumpled paper to keep the items from shifting while moving. Other supplies you need for a smooth move include felt tip markers, labels, furniture pads and packing tape.</p>
<p>If you have large inventory of products, such as bedding supplies, jumbo boxes are available for your moving storage needs. Your inventory of ornaments or glass items need to be wrapped in bubble wrap and placed in a standard size carton. Be sure not to overstuff the boxes with items. A heavy box is more likely to get dropped.</p>
<p>Use common sense when packing. Heavy items like books or canned food need to be in smaller boxes. Heavier items should also be put into smaller boxes to make them easier to carry. The cartons should have tops that can be closed and sealed with packing tape to prevent damage. Completely fill the carton before sealing. Use generous amounts of peanuts, paper or towels for cushioning. </p>
<p>Plan your pack ahead of time. Set aside one room or area to do all your boxing. Keep all your packing supplies together. Pack items you do not use often first. Start to pack as soon as you know you will be moving. Keep track of your items with an inventory list. Make a list of everything you put in each box. A computer printed list with numbers and space or a spiral notebook works well for this job. Label all boxes with the number from the list, the general contents, room it should go in and if the item is fragile.</p>
<p>There is a wide variety of moving storage boxes available to help you move your business safely and securely. Your inventory list will help you keep track of items that might get damaged or lost during the move. Moving your business should be less stressful with a little planning and using the right containers.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-paris-road-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=909" title="Moving Storage - Do It Right The First Time">Moving Storage - Do It Right The First Time</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Moving_Storage_-_Do_It_Right_The_First_Time.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Extra Money For Retirement or Gas!]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Extra_Money_For_Retirement_or_Gas%21.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>At this very moment, some individuals are trying to plan for early retirement. Many put a lot of their hard earned money into a savings account, 401K, or some retirement plan created by a guy behind a desk in a fancy office. It is scary looking at the future sometimes realizing that you do not have a plan. Even those with a plan, have to ensure that they are following all the steps necessary to make it all work for them and their children. </p>
<p>It is sure that when these people that were proactive in looking at the future saw that they would have to pay almost four dollars for milk and if they drive a heavy duty truck, four and a half dollars for gas. Depending on what they do for a living, they sometimes have to take money out of their super secret vault in order to make some of their everyday needs to be met. Many people are taking on additional jobs and trying to get a secondary income of some type to flow into their wallets. </p>
<p>When you take a closer look mystery shopping is a great program that can bring a good amount of income into your home. Now depending on where you get the information, this service is a lucrative gold mine if you get on board with the right company. When you take a closer look mystery shopping is great because you can do it on your spare time. Let us put on our spectacles and see how this service can help you.</p>
<p>After a hard days work, you want to come home and unwind most of the time in front of your enormous, monstrosity of a picture tube and guzzle down a cold brew. Some feel completely exhausted and do not want to do anything but sit there. While you are sitting there watching television, reading a book, or creating a fine piece of artwork, you could be making money. When we take a closer look mystery shopping comes in all different shapes and sizes and is not a one size fits all kind of job. You can do various services such as telephone shops, in person shops, go on the Internet and shop them, or even take some kind of survey that pays money. Do you think you have time in between beers to do any of those options?</p>
<p>Just think about it, the next time you and your family decides to go out to dinner, you can be getting paid on the back end or be eating for free. Believe it or not restaurants pay good money to hear your feedback on why their service is up to par or not up to par. No one business has the secret sauce to a great experience for the regular hard working individual. Taking a closer look mystery shopping is a benefit to these companies because you are able to inform them on how to provide better service. The great thing for you is that you benefit in a couple of different ways. You benefit because you get to spend time with your family while working, you get free food or money to go out to eat and you get to make one of the places where you go frequently, get better at their service. Those are reasons enough people want to get involved in this service.</p>
<p>When taking a closer look mystery shopping can benefit all walks of life. See if you can fit this service into your busy life and you will benefit greatly.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1005" title="Extra Money For Retirement or Gas!">Extra Money For Retirement or Gas!</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Extra_Money_For_Retirement_or_Gas%21.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Relocating 101 - How To Buy A House States Away]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Relocating_101_-_How_To_Buy_A_House_States_Away.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Matt realized that he would have to transfer jobs soon. He had always known that with the job he had it would be a possibility for the future. Now he and his wife Lacey were facing the prospect of moving halfway across the continent and they were both very stressed out about it. They talked long nights about what they would do. Lacey made numerous lists of things they needed to check into and information they needed to find out. Among these lists of things was finding a national real estate management service. Lacey had been told by a friend that if she would be trying to look for a house long distance, then finding a national real estate management service was practically a necessity.</p>
<p>Lacey and Matt soon found out that with the benefits of finding a national real estate management service, they would eliminate many of their problems with finding a new house so far away. Lacey had been very apprehensive about the possibility of not seeing a house until she had bought it. The company they chose was helpful on this point, sending all the pictures, video clips and information about the house that the couple needed, and even more besides. Lacey and Matt had the opportunity to look through countless pictures and information about different homes, which made them both feel so much more comfortable with the situation. They soon realized that dealing with national real estate management made them much more relaxed in this naturally stressful situation, and neither of them regretted going through such a company for their needs.</p>
<p>The young couple now had plans beginning to form. They had narrowed down their choice of homes to just three, and were planning on taking a flight the next weekend in order to see all of the homes and make a final decision. What was even more helpful was that the national real estate management service they had chosen to work with helped them find a local inspecting agency which would be ready to send an inspector to the house of their choice at any time. This helped them greatly, as they did not know the area they were moving to at all, and did not have any idea of a good inspection agency to hire.</p>
<p>They flew out of state and saw the three remaining houses on their list. After long deliberation, they chose one. Immediately after the choice was made, more problems came into Matt and Laceys heads. Lacey told Matt that they would need a moving company and truck that would have an office in both locations, the home they currently lived in, and the home they were moving to. Matt told her that this would probably not be a problem at all. He had spoken with a representative from the company they were working with and she had told him that they would be happy to help them find a moving company. They would get the information and make the phone calls they were necessary, and get back to Lacey and Matt when they had found a moving company that would fit their particular needs. Lacey could not believe this!</p>
<p>All in all, the couple was very happy with this company, and their move ended up being much less stressful than they had anticipated. If they ever needed to do something similar to this again, they both knew exactly what steps they would take.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1003" title="Relocating 101 - How To Buy A House States Away">Relocating 101 - How To Buy A House States Away</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Relocating_101_-_How_To_Buy_A_House_States_Away.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Curing The Common Cold of Complacency]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Curing_The_Common_Cold_of_Complacency.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Here in the world today, no one has the cure to the common cold. Now, some would say if you take different medicine the way it was prescribed on the label you will get better. On the other hand, you may have some relative that believes in their home remedy that if you hop up and down on one foot, flap one arm like a chicken, while using the other hand to feed yourself egg yolks, you will instantly be cured. While the second option is fun, most people will just try to take some medicine or just try to let their immune system do the job it is supposed to do. </p>
<p>Just like the common cold, there is no cure or way to ensure that your company will be around in the decades to come. To most readers, this might sound like an extremely harsh thing to say, but it is reality. No one business is guaranteed to be in business in the future. For this reason, many companies are racking their brains trying to figure out how they can stay around in their community.</p>
<p>You will see some people do all sorts of different ideas or schemes in order to keep their business out of the red. Some people have huge sales every week, where they put out balloons all over their building. There have been companies that send out flyers or go door to door to get people through the door of their business. No matter what idea they come up with, they still will have issues if they can not fix the internal workings of their sales staff. Having an effective team of individuals taking care of the clients and their businesses will dramatically affect your bottom line. To most people that is not a secret, but some companies are learning the hard way and are being bought out by larger companies that get it. </p>
<p>Most of these successful companies get the idea turn to a mystery shopping agency that can help provide some quality feedback. The thought around a mystery shopping agency is to evaluate your business and through either a report or face to face contact, give you what they found. Let us look closer.</p>
<p>Just think how it would be to have a company that you partner with that can help you enhance the performance and profitability of the companies the work for in a specific, measurable and intense way. There are many agencies out there but not all the ones guarantee their work or your money back. Not all the companies will give them a confident recommendation to use their services. There is a mystery shopping agency that can provide proof of the previous sentences to you and more. </p>
<p>When looking for a mystery shopping agency , you have your work cut out for you. As stated above there are many companies that state what they do, you just need to verify it. There will be fees associated with the different services they provide as well, so you have to see if those services fit in your budget. Sometimes, depending on the current situation of your company, you might have to decide whether or not you need to pay more to get an instant result. </p>
<p>No matter what mystery shopping agency you find, there is one important part that you must follow in order be successful. Now, as far out as this may seem, here it is. The information that you get from the mystery shopping agency , in order to make it worth your time and money, should be used it to make a difference in your everyday business life. When you get information from them, it can not just sit on your hard drive or in a file folder never to be seen again. Your associates need to see how they are doing and it is a great performance management tool for your business. You could sink or swim based on what your clients hear about the service you are providing for them. Most people would like to have the method to improve their business. Having a mystery shopping agency on your side can make a dramatic improvement to your business if you allow it to what is meant to do. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=538" title="Curing The Common Cold of Complacency">Curing The Common Cold of Complacency</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Curing_The_Common_Cold_of_Complacency.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Facility Maintenance For Assisted Living]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Facility_Maintenance_For_Assisted_Living.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>The family learned a few months ago that Dad would need assistance in his daily life. His slowly deteriorating health was making it difficult for him to take care of himself. They decided to move him to an assisted living facility for now and later as he became worse into a long term care facility. Before taking Dad to the first facility they contacted, they did some research first. One of the areas they found lacking in some units was the facility maintenance program. </p>
<p>Budgets have become tight due to many causes. Many of these facilities have to find areas to cut back. Daily support such as dietary needs are prioritized needs while the facility maintenance of the building does without the needed updates. </p>
<p>Assisted living facilities are treated more like home maintenance than institutional maintenance. The difference from a normal home maintenance is the amount and type of residents. Incontinence and wheelchairs or walkers often cause destruction in the rooms. Regular maintenance is needed to keep walls, carpets and baseboards clean or repaired for the safety and sanitation of the patients. </p>
<p>The HVAC, sprinkler and fire systems are complicated and must comply with local regulations. These regulations call for regular inspections of the systems. Without routine preventative facility maintenance in the budget, these homes can be closed if the systems are not kept up to code.</p>
<p>Regular routine maintenance needs to be done to keep the facility safe. It is recommended to change filters in heating and cooling systems, keep the coils clean and checking sprinkler systems routinely. Keeping the current system well maintained lengthens the life expectancy of the unit. </p>
<p>Maintenance workers should be qualified in what they do. They will be interacting with the residents so they should be good at making the residents feel safe and satisfied with the work. They are often called upon to assist in the changes in a room. </p>
<p>The family found an assisted living facility that met their needs. The home had a reasonable budget set aside for facility maintenance needs. When it came time to move dad into the facility, the maintenance team was called upon to put up shelves and move furniture so Dad could feel at home. </p>
<p>The maintenance team routinely checks the exits for accessibility. The lighting was checked often and new bulbs replaced as needed. The doors had been recently greased and the floors were free of cracks so their dad could easily navigate in his wheelchair.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p>
<p>Their dad enjoyed interacting with the maintenance workers. They often held special activities such as workshops for the men. This allowed them to talk about things they missed in their lives such as working with tools. The family appreciated the extra care and time the team spent with their dad. </p>
<p>The maintenance crew acts as a part of the caregivers. They provide extra eyes and ears because of their continued access to the resident units. They notice when the cupboard doors need repair or painting and see behavior changes in the resident. They can tell when a door is getting uncommonly heavy use, such as when a resident uses the door for support. They are all trained in first aid and CPR.</p>
<p>Assisted living facilities often have higher use than long term care units. Most residents are ambulatory and active. Higher activity levels lead to more intense maintenance programs to keep the building from going downhill quickly.</p>
<p>The family was pleased to find an assisted living home that realized keeping facility maintenance as a priority in their budget was beneficial to the residents. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=518" title="Facility Maintenance For Assisted Living">Facility Maintenance For Assisted Living</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 18 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Facility_Maintenance_For_Assisted_Living.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Understanding Property Management Fees]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Understanding_Property_Management_Fees.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>When you own property, you are in a great position to make your wallet fatter. Even though there is a large amount of appeal in owning property, some people need help managing them. Some people wonder if it is a good investment to have someone in control of the financial future by managing their properties. But of course just like most services, there will be some sort of real estate management fees associated with their help.</p>
<p>Depending on you area, you will find there are many different companies that say they will manage your property. You have to make sure the real estate management fees they charge will make it worth you wanting them to manage your property. Many companies have a contract that they want you to sign so they can ensure they get their money.</p>
<p>When checking out what the real estate management fees will be from a company, make sure you are getting a good value from what they are offering.&nbsp; Some of the different services they provide that create a value for you is risk management, financial analysis of your properties, some keep the property maintained, manage the advertising depending on what is on the property and making sure the property is being paid for. If the property you own is a rental property, usually the company will charge a small percentage of what the total rental charge of the facility is. This is where you need to determine if that is too much of a loss to part with or go along with. What kind of real estate management fees do you think to be associated with this value?</p>
<p>Before we go into the different types of services offered by these companies, some companies offer a formula in which the fee can be known. Usually they base the fee on how many and how big of property they have to manage. They also look at what they have to provide to you in terms of services and the formula basics might change. </p>
<p>In every property there is some fair amount of risk involved. You can never be too sure in this type of economy whether or not the property you own will turn in to the cash flow you were expecting. Whether it is residential, commercial or just property to raise livestock, you can not be sure in the market today if you are risking loosing money.&nbsp; That is where the management company comes in. They can help you create a report that accesses the amount of risk involved. After the risk is accessed the either encourage or discourage you from proceeding. The final decision is up to you.</p>
<p>For the people that own residential properties, the company managing your property would do most of the building work, keeping the property clean, taking care of any issues that the clients might have and advertising to fill any vacancies. The real estate management fees associated with this service might be worth it if you do not wish to spend your own time dealing with the every day property life. </p>
<p>There will be a fee associated with almost every service that is out there these days. There is almost nothing that you can get for free. The key is understanding what you are getting for the fee and see whether or not you are truly benefiting enough to warrant the cost. If you are not making enough money to support the fee, then it might not be a good business decision to have them run your property. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-paris-road-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1002" title="Understanding Property Management Fees">Understanding Property Management Fees</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Understanding_Property_Management_Fees.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopping Saves The Day, and Your Business]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Saves_The_Day%2C_and_Your_Business.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Are you a concerned business owner searching for ideas and ways to spruce up your wilting company? Does your retail store or cozy corner eatery sparkle with the enthusiasm of a young childs day at the local amusement park? Or is walking into your mundane establishment akin to standing impatiently in the ultra long lines at the drivers license office? Do you have one or more paid employees who exhibit signs of ongoing lethargy, an inner animosity towards their job, chronic boredom or excellent computer solitaire playing skills? If you have answered these questions truthfully, chances are good that you are having an awakening of financial proportions. If your business is boring, your profit is falling and you want to know what you can do about the humdrum you find within your employees ranks, have no fear. The secret shopper company is here!&nbsp; </p>
<p>More honest than your mother in law, more informative than your gossiping neighbor and more valuable to your business than a pile of spun gold, the secret shopper company will come to your rescue and help you in your time of uncertainty and woe. With honor and unmatched courage, the fearless agents at the secret shopper company will enter your humble establishment incognito. Under cover of ordinariness they watch and interact, all the while digging for clues to your business slump. Not even you will recognize these masters of disguise as they slip right into the line at the checkout or innocently ask your sales person if they can try on the same dress in a different color. </p>
<p>These highly trained specialists and wonders of the working world are masters at observing every interaction, recording everything around them with keen eyes and astute powers of discernment. These warriors fight for the truth that is within the heart of your business. These brave men and women understand that at the core of every company is a soulful and highly regarded mission statement. This mission statement is a promise to all who enter, and must be upheld at all costs. If your mission is unclear, have no fear. The secret shopper company is here to uncover your mission statement, cast a bright light on unacceptable attitudes and behaviors and offer insight and wisdom to you, loyal business owner.</p>
<p>At the shopper company, the honest, unbiased truth of your establishment will be revealed and you, the business owner, will be illuminated by that truth. It is then that your company can come to know how it can shine like the opalescent gem that it was meant to be, spreading its message of fair and pleasant interaction, satisfaction and a guarantee of happiness and a smile to all patrons big and small. Do not let another day of insincere interactions, aggravated and unsatisfied customers and inattentive staff pass you by. Call the secret shopper company today and see how glorious your business can be.&nbsp; </p>
<p>In these dark days of business failure when shop after uninformed shop fall prey to the disease of no customers, you must take responsibility and insure beyond a shadow of a doubt that the most important aspect of your company, your customers, are pleased with your business, and their experience with you and your employees was superior. Only by offering such high quality to your patrons will you be able to insure the success of your business. Make your customers number one. Make them glad that they walked through your doors. Give them the best service of their lives and a lollipop before they go. And if you find yourself in times of trouble, call the secret shopper company . You will be glad you did.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-paris-road-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1001" title="Secret Shopping Saves The Day, and Your Business">Secret Shopping Saves The Day, and Your Business</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Saves_The_Day%2C_and_Your_Business.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Ingredients To Great Quality Assurance]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Ingredients_To_Great_Quality_Assurance.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Having had training for quality assurance service is a good thing, but you do not necessarily have to have it in order to be good at it. There are always things that you can try to do to improve your work performance, no matter where you are employed.</p>
<p>Most obviously, excellence is one of the first major things to think about when trying to perform quality assurance service . That goes for everything you can think of, from the product, to your performance and treatment of customers. It seems to automatically translate into trust when a customer sees that you are 110 percent devoted to the value of your work and work environment. And even if you cannot control the value or type of products you promote or sell, you can try to ensure that when it reaches your hands, it remains in good condition from there on out. When a customer walks into any store or business, they will want to know, even if they do not need it, that there is someone who is available and very willing to help them at all times. This is part of the excellence of a persons job, making themselves available for this type of thing.</p>
<p>Being sincere is also one of the most important things to quality assurance service . Most people will be able to immediately spot if you are sincere about both your job and the things you are telling them about the products. If you are not sincere about these things, and a customer sees this, it is highly unlikely they will choose to buy from you or your company. You should not have to lie about a product, or even beat around the bush about what it is for or the advantages that a customer might have in purchasing it. If you thoroughly know your product, sincerity should be no problem at all, and you should constantly be ready with the information any customer might be seeking. </p>
<p>This leads to another important thing, knowing your product. This is definitely a huge part of quality assurance service , and should never under any circumstances be overlooked by any employee of a company, whatever their particular job is. Everyone within the company needs to know the product or products as well as they possibly can. For instance, if you are selling lawn mowers, you need to know what kind of lawn mower it is, as many of the parts as you can, the brand of the company who manufactures it, the speeds or levels it may have, and any other additional information about it that a customer might ask or need to know before purchasing it. A good way to gauge how much you need to know about a product is to pretend that you are the customer for a moment. Ask yourself what you would want to know about a certain product or item before you went to the trouble and expense of buying it. This is usually a fairly good indicator or how much information you need to have on the item.</p>
<p>Lastly, just simple smiles and friendliness are one of the best tactics when impressing customers. As a customer yourself, you know that a frown or a rude or indifferent attitude from an employee trying to serve you definitely puts you off, and makes you not very anxious to return to that company again. So add a smile and a good attitude to all of the above advice and your quality assurance service should be great.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-paris-road-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=537" title="Ingredients To Great Quality Assurance">Ingredients To Great Quality Assurance</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Ingredients_To_Great_Quality_Assurance.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[General Responsibilities Of Property Management]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/General_Responsibilities_Of_Property_Management.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Commercial property maintenance services handle your building and grounds repair and upkeep. The roof to the basement to the curb, these companies take care of your property for a flat rate. What services are included in the rate?</p>
<p>Preventative maintenance is almost always included. Preventative maintenance is necessary to keep the building and its equipment in good working order to prevent future failures. This saves you time and money and improves your equipment.</p>
<p>There are several areas included in preventative maintenance. The heating and air conditioning system is a major one.&nbsp; Qualified contractors perform service updates to keep the systems well maintained. Another area is the janitorial services. They inspect and clean hallways, restrooms, elevators and entryways to meet sanitation standards. The elevators are inspected annually for proper working order. </p>
<p>Roofing and gutters are inspected once a year. The roofer will determine if any work needs to be done, if the roof needs to be replaced or any other problems from an aging roof. The gutters and downspouts are cleaned regularly and monitored for leaks.</p>
<p>Seasonal maintenance falls under the preventative category as well. The grounds are reviewed for drainage issues, while the building is inspected for freezing and wind damage. The maintenance crew weatherizes the property by closing vents, stocking snow removal supplies and covering outside faucets. </p>
<p>Commercial property maintenance services are available for emergency responses to calls. If there is a problem with a leak a contractor is available to make necessary repairs. If plumbing problems arise, the maintenance crew quickly responds and makes the needed repairs. Heating failure, fire, flood or water pipe breaks are all potential property damaging or life threatening emergencies. Often the maintenance crew is able to respond to an emergency within 4 hours, as compared to hiring an outside contractor which can take from a couple of days or more to respond. </p>
<p>The landscaping and grounds keeping is a part of the commercial property maintenance services as well. A professional landscaper is hired to maintain the landscaping, keeping grounds trimmed in the summer, setting out and taking care of plants and flowers in the spring. The maintenance group sweeps the lot and removes snow and ice from the parking area in the winter. They are responsible for maintaining the appearance of the outside of the building by painting when needed. Planting, trimming and cleaning are necessary to have a good curb appeal for the property. Asphalt or concrete is inspected and repaired for damages. </p>
<p>Commercial property maintenance companies use qualified staff or contractors to maintain your property. They work with a list of vendors who are licensed and insured to provide quality service for the propertys needs. Requests for maintenance are made through routine inspections of the building and grounds, from tenants who request work and regular preventative maintenance. No work is done without the authorization of the manager of the property or the owner. </p>
<p>Maintaining commercial and retail facilities is an ongoing part of owning the property. The maintenance company must prioritize the needs of the repairs. Of course, emergency maintenance is a highest priority. A non working HVAC system will come before a dirty parking lot. The commercial property maintenance company sets the priority of routine repairs and cleanings to fit the budget set by the owner or manager. </p>
<p>The customer and the manager appreciate well maintained properties. A pleasing facility is important for attracting new tenants to your office building and customers to retail facilities.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65202-paris-road-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=517" title="General Responsibilities Of Property Management">General Responsibilities Of Property Management</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 17 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/General_Responsibilities_Of_Property_Management.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Business Software Increases Efficiency]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Business_Software_Increases_Efficiency.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Your storing business is open. You now need to find the right self storage software package to run the business. Compare packages to find the software program that has the features you need. Look out for hidden costs on any purchase. </p>
<p>The computer is a trusted asset in most businesses. Having the right package allows the operator to accomplish any management or accounting function. Deposit tickets can be printed along with copies of lease agreements. The software keeps track of inventory, and locks out tenants who are delinquent on their rent. The right package allows managers more time to devote to other tasks and that profit to the bottom line. </p>
<p>These programs simplify most financial functions and management tasks. Paperwork can be generated as needed. Bills, late notices, sales and transactions, payments and collections reports are routinely printed from the software program. They can integrate with most account software programs as well. </p>
<p>Software vendors often have hidden costs in their programs. When comparing packages be sure to find out what is included and what features are an extra fee.</p>
<p>One charge many vendors add is for updating the software with future releases. The updates often have fixes for problems in the original software. Some will have new features loaded into the program. It is standard for many companies to charge for these upgrades. </p>
<p>Technical support should be included free in any software program. Many vendors are now including a manual with the software and offering free or low cost technical support for quick questions. Sometimes this support can be found online in the form of forums or email support. Any software will have an error once in a while. Software vendors should offer some kind of support through customer service phone calls. Sometimes this service is reflected in the cost of the program since the company will need to pay their representatives. </p>
<p>Some self storage software programs might not include necessary features that will cost extra. Try to find the software that includes everything you need without additional costs. Compare prices including any additional costs for extra features when looking for software.</p>
<p>Keeping up with reservations, quotes and tracking delivery requires a good management program. A good program is essential for management to keep organized and to track changes. Software is used to operate units in many different locations. Real time access lets users manage the units from anywhere. They have access to financials, reports, customer reservations and quotes all in one centralized location. The business call center gets real time status of all the units. A good software program allows for automating billing and accepting online payments. </p>
<p>Web based self storage software systems allow the owner or manager to view the most current information. They can raise rents quickly as the market demands, streamline collections of past due rents and review online reports instantly. You can edit letters, adjust your accounts, schedule rents and audit stores from anywhere. </p>
<p>Self storage software should automate manual tasks and minimize liabilities. Employees can use the software to print labels and mail certified letters without going to the post office. </p>
<p>Operating a facility using self storage software allows the manager the freedom to print and track records of payments, costs and delinquencies. Whether you have 10 units or 500 units, using a good software program helps you manage you business for the most profit. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65201-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=908" title="Business Software Increases Efficiency">Business Software Increases Efficiency</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Business_Software_Increases_Efficiency.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Fulfillment Of A Property Management Career]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Fulfillment_Of_A_Property_Management_Career.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Ben is a sophomore in college but does not know what he wants to go into. He knows what he likes to do in general, but he does not know how to translate it into a career that will be enjoyable and financially stable. For one thing, he loves people, working with them, taking to them, spending time with them, making people happy in general. Also, he loves a good challenge. He knows that whatever he will choose as a career, if it will make him happy, it cannot be something that is the same every day, it cannot keep him anchored to an office or a permanent site. It has to be challenging and ever changing.</p>
<p>Of course there are many options available to Ben, but he does not yet know it. As he progresses throughout his college career and observes other degrees, people and careers around him, he begins to see just how wide his options actually are, and he begins to become excited about his career. After much thought and deliberation, Ben decides to major in real estate and property management . He knows someone in this position, therefore has an inside view of what this career can truly be like, the pros and cons and details of it. </p>
<p>Real estate and property management is something Ben feels meets all of his needs and more. It allows him to constantly come into contact with other people, work one on one with people, and directly and personally address their needs and help them. Also, with a job in real estate and property management , Ben realizes he will never even have the chance to get bored. Yes, there is office work involved, but by no means will he ever be tied down all day every day to a desk or even an office. He will be visiting sites that are being built, managed or improved upon; he will be traveling, observing, analyzing, improving and making major decisions that will make him feel he is doing quality work every single day, giving him a sense of fulfillment and happiness.</p>
<p>An easy way that Ben finds he can learn about real estate and property management is by requesting to shadow his uncle, who is employed in just such a position. This way, he may follow his uncle around and get a direct experience of what the job will actually be like on a day to day basis. This is an excellent and nearly foolproof way of finding out if Ben will like the job or not, and he wishes that everyone could have the opportunity he did to learn about their career before they pursue it 100 percent. Ben is gratified to find out that, even after shadowing his uncle for several months off and on, he is still greatly interested in pursuing real estate and property management as his degree and eventually his career. He realizes with a sigh of relief that if he had not had the opportunity to do this, he might never have chosen this for his career, and he wonders to himself how many people go into the wrong career just because they like the way it sounds, but later find out, too late, that it is nothing at all what they thought it would be.&nbsp; Not only does this career fit Ben completely and meet all his needs, it is a stable job financially that will allow him to grow upward if he desires to do so.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65201-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=999" title="Fulfillment Of A Property Management Career">Fulfillment Of A Property Management Career</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Fulfillment_Of_A_Property_Management_Career.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopping Brings Conflict Resolution]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Brings_Conflict_Resolution.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>As the district manager of a certain region of retail stores, Amanda wanted all of her stores to perform to the best of their abilities. She also wanted all of her employees to be on their toes at all times, making every last customer feel special and attended to. Amanda had also had some suspicions about one of her employees, as she had a phone call to her office from a disgruntled customer about this certain employee being rude to her. She knew that direct questioning would get her nowhere, and she knew that even a surprise visit to this branch of the store would not reveal what she wanted to know. Amanda decided it was high time to find mystery shopper services that would work for her company. She knew that with the secrecy of whomever would complete the task, this could be a possible solution to her problem, and she would know what to do about her problem employee. Also, she knew that it was the most direct way to find out overall how all of her employees were doing, and how the organization and cleanliness of the store were being handled. Amanda even would be able to outline the specific things she wished for the mystery shopper services to inform their worker to look for.</p>
<p>Linda works for mystery shopper services . When she got the call to go to Amandas store, it was one of many that she would be doing for the week. Linda has a child who she usually gets to take with her on most of her jobs, so she loaded up her daughter and headed to Amandas local retail store. She knew from what the mystery shopper services had told her and the forms they had given her, what she would need to especially keep an eye out for. </p>
<p>When she arrived at the store, she met with two very friendly and helpful employees, both of whom at different times during her shop helped her with things she needed or questions she had. She noted that the facility was fairly clean and very well organized. Linda was pleased with most of what she saw. When she and her daughter got to the register to pay for what they were going to purchase, the woman running the register did not smile at her. She barely lifted her head as she completed the transaction and handed Linda the change due to her. Linda smiled and asked how she was doing, and the employee frowned and said she would be doing better if she did not work at this store, she was way underpaid. Linda nodded in understanding and made a mental note. </p>
<p>When Linda got home that afternoon she filled out her report thoroughly, noting everything she had noticed, and emailed it immediately to the mystery shopper services . They in turn, after reviewing it and send it directly to Amanda, the district manager. The total turnover time from when Linda sat down to write her report to when it reached Amandas hands was approximately 48 hours. Amanda was very well pleased. She read over the report and noticed the employee who had been less than friendly. She was happy that the store had had no other problems, though and was generally clean and organized. Amanda ended up having a meeting with her rude employee to help her with tactics to be more agreeable and helpful to customers. The entire process was just what Amanda had wanted and expected.</p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65201-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=1000" title="Secret Shopping Brings Conflict Resolution">Secret Shopping Brings Conflict Resolution</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Brings_Conflict_Resolution.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Quality Assurance - Secure A Good Reputation]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Quality_Assurance_-_Secure_A_Good_Reputation.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>In this world today, having your own business or being someone in power to make the decisions within a business, is not an easy task. You have to be on top of your game constantly in order to succeed. One or two off days and you might lose out on some potential income or profit. As of now, no one out there has the formula to perfect success all the time. </p>
<p>You might see different types of media that talk about how to be successful based on someone elses successes and victories. As we all know, no one is the same as another person. So why would you try to base your success of off another person?&nbsp; Now, there can be similarities and you could use some of their tips to benefit you. In the grand scheme of things, you have to create a plan of action to make a profit that works for you. If you have clients that buy or use your services, you make a profit if you monitor the expenses you have. Many companies are turning to the idea of quality assurance to monitor how their clients are being taken care of. </p>
<p>There are many different ways that you can involve quality assurance into your company. Some companies monitor the in-store interactions of their associates and the clients, you can hire another person to specifically train and coach your associates, there are ways to monitor the quality of the products or services you sell or you can hire a company that specializes in quality assurance to create a plan for you. No matter which way you proceed, you need to be consistent. </p>
<p>With some companies monitoring the interactions of their associates, that can come in many forms. You can hire a company that specifies in shopping you and giving you feedback on what they saw and heard. This is one of the best ways that companies can see what areas they need to work on. Still all in all, you need to be consistent and have a plan on how to use the information that you find to make a quick change on your opportunities. </p>
<p>There are people out there that specialize in coaching and motivating people. By keeping people motivated, they will deliver the same quality that you expect from them. You are paying your associates to do a good job, so why should you expect anything else? You might be able to save some money to the bottom line and find someone within your association that can perform this duty and maintain the quality assurance of your company. They should be able to coach on the fly, track performance and help create plans to improve on the people that are currently with the company as well as those that will soon enter your company.</p>
<p>If you search on the internet, depending on your area, you can find companies that specialize in quality assurance . Not all areas have companies that do so, but if you do, it would not hurt looking into what they do. They might do some of the services that were listed above and they could do way more than you expected. By finding these companies, you can open up your company and your share holders to a whole new world of growth and opportunities. </p>
<p>Any option you decide to proceed with depends on your own personal style of business. No one out there is the same, because if so, there would be little or not employment opportunities in the country. Taking ownership of the quality assurance of the products or services you provide is the key to your success. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65201-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=536" title="Quality Assurance - Secure A Good Reputation">Quality Assurance - Secure A Good Reputation</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Quality_Assurance_-_Secure_A_Good_Reputation.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Make A Career Of Real Estate Investing]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Make_A_Career_Of_Real_Estate_Investing.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You are interested in starting a career in real estate investment . There are many questions you should ask before embarking on this path. The most important one might be are you totally committed to making a living in realty? You will need to seriously commit to this career to make a profit. There are a lot of ups and downs in this business, with the stock market fluctuations and dealing with buyers and sellers and tenants. </p>
<p>Property values fluctuate gradually. They gradually increase in value over time. Investors who buy for the long term for the slow and steady growth are truly committed to their real estate investment . The investor may opt to hold onto the property and rent it out to others to earn an income or use the property for personal use as a vacation home. </p>
<p>Using property for vacation leasing helps compensate the costs the owners incur on maintaining the home when not in residence. People often enjoy vacationing in tourist areas where a vacation property can be in high demand. </p>
<p>Making an investment in any type of letting property requires a commitment. The property must be maintained regularly to remain rented. The investor must make an effort to keep the property managed well by either hiring a company to manage for them or to take on the task themselves. The management of the property makes certain the home does not fall into disrepair. </p>
<p>These management agencies handle the monthly details and collections of rents. They contract with services such as housekeeping, groundskeepers, electricians and other routine maintenance sources to keep the property in top condition. A well maintained property can become a liquid asset in the future. </p>
<p>There are many challenges with buying any real estate investment asset. The investor should determine their return on the investment when considering the property value. A low market will provide less return than one purchased during a high realty market. </p>
<p>The value of the house and the condition it is in is another challenge. Will you need to sink a lot of money into it to get it ready to rent out? The rule of thumb is if it takes more than one third of the purchase price to fix it up, it is not worth purchasing. An old home in need of a lot of upgrades and repair may not be worth putting your money into. Buying property that needs some work to bring it up to par however can be a great bargain. Buying real estate investment assets can be difficult, but might turn into a great investment with hard work. </p>
<p>There are risks in the investment business. Whether you are investing in some type of letting property or investing in property to flip, each type of property carries its own set of risks. One of the biggest risks is paying too much for the property to see a profit. There are risks of bad tenants, poor management and underestimating the cost of repairs. </p>
<p>A wonderful benefit of real estate investment is that you are working for yourself. You do not have to punch the time clock or answer to the boss. You need to be disciplined in order to do this type of business. There is no one telling you when to work or what to purchase. But the satisfaction at the end of each day comes from knowing you are working to make yourself wealthy and not someone else. </p>
<p>Being committed is important no matter what type of real estate investment you make. You want to be committed to making a profit to make your venture a success. </p>
<p><a href="http://missouri-columbia-65201-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Columbia Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=516" title="Make A Career Of Real Estate Investing">Make A Career Of Real Estate Investing</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Make_A_Career_Of_Real_Estate_Investing.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Why Self Storage Managers Ask So Many Questions]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Why_Self_Storage_Managers_Ask_So_Many_Questions.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><em>Hello! My name is (blank) How can I help you today?</em></p>
<p>Self storage management agrees that this simple way of answering the phone is the most common. It is important for consumers to listen for the enthusiastic tone of the managers voice because this will show that the manager is happy and ready to help you despite the fact that they have never met you. This is a great quality in a manager because it shows that they do not let anything that may be bothering them affect how they handle business at the store. This phrase starts the call off on a good or bad note depending upon how the manager answers and their tone of voice and how the consumer perceives them. If the manager answers in a great way then the door of communication between self storage management and consumer will be open. The first impression has been established and the manager will then be at the ready to determine what it is you may need help with.</p>
<p><em>Let me ask you some questions to save you time and money.</em></p>
<p>Self storage management may use this statement in order to determine a number of things about the consumers needs. Making sure that you are calling a location that is the most convenient is the first qualifier. It is important to save time and gas when traveling to the facility. The second concern addressed by this statement is size. Ensuring that you are getting the right size appropriate for you is the second qualifier and the most important. Since size is linked directly to price, a good manager makes sure that you are not paying for a unit that is simply bigger than what you actually need. These statements are used to qualify your needs in order to save time during the call and site visit, and to save money through location and sizing. The manager is then at the ready to talk more in depth about the facility so that you understand its features and their benefits.</p>
<p><em>When you store with us, we provide.</em></p>
<p>Self storage management is good at giving the main highlights of their facility because they know what sets them apart from the rest. Some offer great security, great access hours, a different quality of units, and specials that closely rival their competitors. In largely populated areas with many facilities specializing in customers needing to store, these aspects can be determining factors for many customers. Some require a climate controlled atmosphere for their belongings. Others need a wide range of access hours and security to back up those hours. Many are just looking for a clean, secure, convenient, and easy to use place to store for a little while. Regardless of the type unit the consumers need, it is up to the manager to build value in the assets of the facility. Self storage management gives the very first visual of the facility to you so that when you come in to see the site, you are more prepared to look for those benefits.</p>
<p><em>We have a gated perimeter so that only tenants may enter.</em></p>
<p>The ultimate goal of self storage management is to get an agreement about certain features and expectations between the self storage management and consumer. This aspect is fundamental because you must know what to expect from the facility and you should understand how you will directly benefit from the features offered. As mentioned before, access hours, the use of elevators versus stairs only, the level of security provided, and move in information are all aspects that you should understand before jumping in the car for a site visit. Once the manager has gotten an agreement from you about your need for storing and your desire to do so at their facility, it is common for management to invite you in for a site visit or to offer to reserve the unit until you can come in. These two options show that the facility cares about your needs and are willing to help you as best they can.</p>
<p>As a consumer who may be calling around, you can now appreciate the simple statements of a manager. They may seem small and unimportant. However, they open the door to truly saving you time and money. Listen to the next manager you call when inquiring about storing. Are they happy to be there? Do they determine your needs or just give you some prices? Do they help to build value in their facility through explaining the features and benefits you will enjoy with them? A good, caring manager will attend to all of your needs as best as they can, even if it is by telephone. In closing, self storage management has a lot of responsibilities. Despite this, they are never too busy to help an inquiring consumer.</p>
<p><a href="http://minnesota-hopkins-55343-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Hopkins Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=907" title="Why Self Storage Managers Ask So Many Questions">Why Self Storage Managers Ask So Many Questions</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Why_Self_Storage_Managers_Ask_So_Many_Questions.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Parenting Choices and Work From Home Jobs]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Parenting_Choices_and_Work_From_Home_Jobs.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Parenting is tough for first time parents. Although we are born with some parental instinct, it is still about sacrifice. For a couple expecting their first child, they may find themselves feeling a little sad that the freedom they had before a baby is gone. They should not feel guilty about that feeling. It is normal to have a wide range of emotions when such a huge change has happened. Luckily, a cute little baby is enough motivation to embrace the change. </p>
<p>However, a lot of parents make guilt or social acceptance a factor in making decisions, especially a mom. Although our society has dramatically changed the opportunities for women, we would be remiss to admit that a part of us does not want to stay at home and play with baby all day instead of go to work. </p>
<p>The truth is, that no matter what decision you make, you and others may second guess or judge the decision. If you have a career that you love, you may feel guilty for leaving the baby. Or your mother in law or other friends and family may pressure you to stay home, like they did. </p>
<p>On the other hand, if you are a stay at home mom, you may feel like you are not contributing to the familys income. And still, others may treat you as though you do nothing worthwhile. You may even find yourself missing the excitement and interaction with coworkers.</p>
<p>As a mom, you should make these decisions based on yourself. So many things about parenting will require you to put yourself aside, but your career should not be one of them. If you thrive at work and feel you would not be happy at home, then you should make the decision to go back. The last thing you want is regret or resentment towards your husband or even your children. </p>
<p>If you want nothing more than to be a stay at home mom and raise your children, then kudos to you. Make that decision and do not take to heart those that look down on it. A stay at home mom is certainly a full time, and sometimes stressful job. And consider the cost you would be saving the family in child care. Sometimes the income of a job and the cost of child care barely break even.</p>
<p>But what if you would like to stay home, but your family needs your income? </p>
<p>There are lots of jobs and careers that allow flexibility. One thing to consider is becoming a secret shopper . Becoming a secret shopper would open a world of opportunities for a stay at home mom. </p>
<p>As a shopper, you would be sent on assignments to local restaurants, fast food chains, retailers, doctors offices, etc. The great thing about becoming a secret shopper is that is not only provides some income, but often includes free or discounted merchandise. By becoming a secret shopper , you may be sent to evaluate the local grocery store and asked to buy some fresh produce. Of course, you could multi-task and do your other shopping while there and now you have been paid to do your errands. In addition, the fresh produce should be reimbursed as part of the assignment.</p>
<p>Becoming a secret shopper is a great way to compromise being a stay at home mom, having a career and making some money for bills. And, as you will quickly learn, parenting is all about compromise.</p>
<p><a href="http://minnesota-hopkins-55343-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Hopkins Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=997" title="Parenting Choices and Work From Home Jobs">Parenting Choices and Work From Home Jobs</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Parenting_Choices_and_Work_From_Home_Jobs.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Get Into House Flipping For Profit]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Get_Into_House_Flipping_For_Profit.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>If you are looking to make large amounts of money, but do not wish to invest in high risk schemes, real estate property management is a good option to look into. Of course there are many aspects to real estate property management , some of which many people might consider too difficult for them, requiring an education and experience beyond their current abilities. This does not have to be true in every circumstance, however. Real estate property management can be for anyone who is willing to take moderate risks, and has enough capital to start off with. </p>
<p>You do not have to have a degree, you do not have to be a specialized agent, and you do not even have to be an expert when it comes to houses and land. One of the most popular directions that many ordinary people go when pursuing real estate property management is with the buying of houses, fixing them up, and selling them at an extremely fast turnover rate for great profits. This is often called house flipping, and in many places has become a very popular part time or even full time job for some people. </p>
<p>Of course there are always risks involved with anything on this scale, but the best advice to follow if this is something you are interested in is to begin on a small scale. Buy a house that does not need major or extreme repairs, perhaps just some new carpet, a new paint job, maybe some strategic landscaping and a new furnace, etc. You do not want to begin with something on a large scale, such as a house that may have foundational problems, or needs a new roof, has termite damage or perhaps even requires being gutted and starting from scratch. These are houses that someone with experience will be able to look at, assess, and decide whether or not they will turn a good profit after the expenses of the flip. But if you are inexperience and unfamiliar with the housing market to a large degree, you should steer clear of these houses for a while.</p>
<p>If you flip a house and make a profit, even a small profit, a few times, you will begin to get the feel for your local market, the good communities and neighborhoods, and become more familiar with what to look for in houses. Only after you have given yourself this time to become familiar and experienced with this type of work, whether it is a side job or otherwise, will you be able to successfully move on to bigger and better, making your profits rise.</p>
<p>Of course there are many ways to employ real estate property management and flipping houses is merely one of them. It is something that many people not only make money from, but enjoy greatly. Buying and selling houses with fast turnover time can be exhilarating and fun, almost like decorating and fixing your own house, and in the end you get the satisfaction of not only making someone happy by finding their dream home, but you also get to walk away with possibly a large profit. The profit you make from one house can go into the overhead for the next, making it possible for you to spend a little more every time, thus make more money every time. If you do it correctly, this job can only get better and better.</p>
<p><a href="http://minnesota-hopkins-55343-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Hopkins Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=998" title="Get Into House Flipping For Profit">Get Into House Flipping For Profit</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Get_Into_House_Flipping_For_Profit.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Free Hotel Stays and Perks By Secret Shopping]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Free_Hotel_Stays_and_Perks_By_Secret_Shopping.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Providing good customer satisfaction is important for any business. The owners of a business rely on research to tell them they are providing good service. The research is done by a mystery shopping service . </p>
<p>These companies provide anonymous evaluators to come into your business, acting as a real customer. They purchase products and services while evaluating the service they received. Companies hire the mystery shopping service to help them determine customer needs and ways to improve. The service can be hired to monitor an employee who might not be providing good service. </p>
<p>One industry that relies on this service is the hotels. They work with the service to hire shoppers to assess customer satisfaction, how satisfied guests are, the loyalty of the guests, product quality and other needs as they are requested. The shopper will evaluate staff including the front desk, restaurant, and bar and catering facilities, gift shops and reservation staff. The shopper may pose as a guest to report on the cleanliness of the room, the availability of towels, shampoo, tissues and other necessary items. </p>
<p>Hotel owners are grateful to the shopping industry. The owners and management learn what areas of their business needs improvement. By posing as a normal hotel gust, the professional shopper receives the same treatment as any other guest without being recognized as an evaluator. An anonymous guest gives the company a realistic view of staff behavior and daily operations.</p>
<p>The shopper completes a written report narrating their observations. The evaluations are used to gain an advantage over their competitors. The reports help the client of the mystery shopping service improve their training and recruitment of employees. </p>
<p>There are many companies who provide a mystery shopping service to hotels. Doing a search on the Internet will turn up the leading companies who offer services to upscale hotels. </p>
<p>Hotel evaluations are a large and competitive industry. Some hotels will use an in house shopper to maintain control over the visits to different locations. This is not the case with all hotels. These hotels contract with an outside service to provide the shopper. The shopper is compensated for their work after an accepted report has been filed. </p>
<p>Some of these shoppers are hired to evaluate local accommodations, without the need to travel out of state. The hours are flexible providing an extra income. Most hotel shoppers work part time while working full time at job, raising a family or going to school. The pay ranges from 50 dollars up to 300 dollars per assignment.</p>
<p>Service that exceeds the customer expectations is a key to any successful business. Many large hotel chains hire a shopping to stay ahead of the competition. The shoppers specialize in assessing the operation of hotels. The evaluators are independent contractors making anonymous visits to a hotel. They give a thorough review of the experience and services received. </p>
<p>It does not matter whether your business is product or service related, providing excellent service is necessary. Hotels, restaurants, financial institutions, retail establishments, theaters, eye care professionals and all other industries will use a mystery shopping service at some point. The evaluating company provides businesses necessary research in the market to make improvements for their customer experience. The shopper provides an unbiased view and recommends improvements through the report. Both business and consumers benefit from these services.</p>
<p><a href="http://minnesota-hopkins-55343-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Hopkins&nbsp;RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=535" title="Free Hotel Stays and Perks By Secret Shopping">Free Hotel Stays and Perks By Secret Shopping</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Free_Hotel_Stays_and_Perks_By_Secret_Shopping.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Multifamily Investment Properties]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Multifamily_Investment_Properties.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Purchasing property for the purposes of an investment has advantages. A wise investment will provide good returns and possibly years of enjoyment in the business. Buying multifamily investment properties however may have disadvantages as well. </p>
<p>Property that has more than one family unit for residents is considered multifamily. A duplex or two family unit is the smallest type while the largest complex might have hundreds of apartment units. </p>
<p>Some of the advantages of owning multifamily investment properties are following. </p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>�&nbsp;Multifamily units provide for the basic needs of people. <br />�&nbsp;People always need a place to rent, in any community for many reasons. <br />�&nbsp;Another advantage is the investor becomes wealthy over the long run. Simply by renting the units in several multifamily properties, the investor pays off his mortgage using the money from the rent checks. <br />�&nbsp;A shortage of available dwellings allows owners to be selective in their tenant choices raising rents as needed and reducing vacancies.</p></blockquote>
<p>There are some disadvantages of owning this type of property as well. </p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>�&nbsp;A shortage of tenants due to a changing market sends owners problems. They can no longer be choosy about their choice of tenants, vacancies are higher and more frequent, and leasing rates are reduced. <br />�&nbsp;One cause of a low leasing market is rising of home ownership in a good market. <br />�&nbsp;Another problem is the management of an apartment complex can be demanding due to tenant needs.</p></blockquote>
<p>Financing multifamily investment properties can be based on the leasing income. These income producing properties support the debt incurred. The lender considers the property first and the investor second in the multifamily purchase. In a single family or vacant property the financing is based on the investors financial strength. </p>
<p>In other words the lender evaluates the property according to its income from the renters. Any investor should present an accurate income and expense report and projections that show an increase in the future. Software available for investors helps them create the cash flow projections quickly.</p>
<p>There are many ways to find a deal when investing in property. It is best to use several different methods for leads. </p>
<p>When searching for multifamily investment properties, think like a realtor. Realtors often send out postcards to certain areas in hopes of someone wanting to sell their home.&nbsp; The investor can take the same approach. Send out a mailing of postcards with a rented mailing list. </p>
<p>Another option is to place inexpensive ads in the newspaper. Instead of a simple ad saying you buy houses, think like the homeowner wanting to sell. Do they need money? Probably. Place your ad in the money to lend category. </p>
<p>Buying foreclosures, divorce properties or probate properties is another option for investors. These properties are public knowledge. Send them postcards offering to buy. Contact them in person or the phone. A phone call is more personal than a letter. The owner may hang up on you or abuse you verbally. This is normal. They are going through a hard time. If you do get the homeowner on the phone, set up an appointment to talk to them face to face. Let them know you are an investor and are prepared to help them quickly.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Consider the realty market when you try to buy multifamily investment properties . What is the market doing? How is the property market in the area you are buying? The market helps determine your return on the investment. A lower market will offer less return while a higher market you will get back more return on the money invested. This is an important fact to consider when choosing the right property for your budget. </p>
<p>The investor should consider the property value of the investment properties they are considering and the neighborhood they are located. A multifamily apartment unit located in the up and coming new neighborhood will give a better chance of getting a higher return on the investment. An apartment dwelling located in a declining neighborhood, on the other hand, has a slim chance of increasing anytime soon. The investor is more likely to get lower rents, more vacancies and less return on their investment.</p>
<p>It is rewarding to buy multifamily investment properties and see your returns increase while you are helping people in need.</p>
<p><a href="http://minnesota-hopkins-55343-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Hopkins Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=515" title="Multifamily Investment Properties">Multifamily Investment Properties</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Multifamily_Investment_Properties.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Mobile Storage Relieves Aching Gas Price Pain]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mobile_Storage_Relieves_Aching_Gas_Price_Pain.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>It is that time of year again! It is once again time to clean out the chaotic garage of yours. Unlike previous years, you have a lot more that you will need to store and your resources are even more limited than before. This year you will not be able to travel to a nice storing facility as much as you would like because of the rising cost of gas prices and your time is more limited because of the need for a second job. Although millions of Americans are experiencing the same financial crunch, you have the inside scoop on mobile self storage which will help you meet your need for a place to store.</p>
<p><em>What is Mobile Self Storage ?</em></p>
<p>This type of storing can be very easy for consumers that do not want to invest in a shed to put in their backyard. It can also be convenient for those who will need to pack their items and only access them a few times a year. These two aspects are what make mobile self storage appealing to many consumers. This is especially due to our troubled economy. This type of business specializes in providing units for consumers to store their goods in. These mobile units can be various sizes which allow the consumer to choose the size that will best suit their needs. This is common of most facilities. However, the catch is that the company will bring the unit pod to your location. A truck will drive from the facility to your location and one of two things can happen. You can choose to store the unit on site at your home or you can choose to send it back to the facility warehouse where it will be stored in a safe and secure environment. The fact that a consumer can keep the unit on their own land for a time is what is most appealing to customers because it would cut out the need to travel to an actual facility.</p>
<p><em>The Convenience</em></p>
<p>Now that you realize your need to store is great, it is important to weigh every aspect of mobile self storage . Gas prices alone can affect your decision as to the type of storing you are interested in doing. The cost of mobile self storage can be way less compared to the amount of time and the cost of some traveling to an actual facility. Also, there is usually a small fee associated with the moving of the mobile self storage to and from the warehouse, but this cost would still be lower if you had the unit set up at your house. There would not be a need for travel and the delivery charges would be limited to the drop off and the pick up. If you would only need to access your stuff a few times a year, then the savings would be even greater. These days, convenience is priceless. Why pay more in expenses to travel to a facility if storing with a mobile company will cost less in the long run?</p>
<p><em>The Decision</em></p>
<p>The decision is yours to make and it would be a great decision to choose a company that offers the mobility you may be seeking. If it is available in your area then save yourself some time and look into the cost. Weigh your options of storing in a stationary facility or using the facility with the option for mobility. Determine how many times you may need to access your unit because this will help you to see how much gas you will actually use if you access a couple of times a week. Do not forget to factor in the access hours at a regular facility and the hours that you will be working now that you have a second job. Time is precious and you want to make sure that you will not over extend yourself by storing at a location that does not work with your schedule. Finally, look at all the factors like the size, security, and pricing for both types of facilities. In the long run, you may agree that in todays changing economy, mobile self storage may be the best choice for you and may save you lots of time, money, and hassle.</p>
<p><br /><a href="http://maryland-odenton-21114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Odenton Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=906" title="Mobile Storage Relieves Aching Gas Price Pain">Mobile Storage Relieves Aching Gas Price Pain</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 13 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mobile_Storage_Relieves_Aching_Gas_Price_Pain.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Property Manager - Start Your New Career Today]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Property_Manager_-_Start_Your_New_Career_Today.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Let us be real. One thing that is curious if you think about it is that all the property on our fair land is owned by someone. You can look outside and the properties that are next to you and the property in front of and behind you are all owned by one or more people. From residential land to commercial land, if managed correctly, a profit can be made. With that said, depending on how large the property is or how many people live on that one property, you might need someone to be in charge of it. </p>
<p>Real property management is more involved than most people believe. It is a career or job that takes most of your time and energy. You are in charge and need to ensure that the property runs well and is well maintained. It takes a particular individual to be involved in this profession. As stated above, with so many different properties out there, managers to run these properties are in necessity. So what do they have to do to keep their property up and doing?</p>
<p>First of all there are many different properties you could manage. You could manage a complex of living spaces, some commercial property, some houses that are being rented, etc. Every property has its differences on what is needed. </p>
<p>Real property management in the aspect of commercial properties, those managers have a tall order. Not only are some in charge of making sure that the company that resides on the property is profitable, they have to help create a buzz on getting people to use the services that company provides. That can be a daunting task. Finding a way to ensure that people know this business exists and market it to their community. </p>
<p>When dealing with in real property management , most managers have to make sure that their properties are a well oiled machine. They need to make sure that the property is easily accessible to get into. You do not want your potential customers to not use your property because your facility is not up to date in its maintenance. Cracks in the pavement, in the windows or a not so clean office area, can deter a customer from wanting to use your services. Managers need to be organized and realize what they need to get accomplished that day or week. Once they have plan, they need to execute that plan. Plans are great, but without execution they are just ideas.</p>
<p>Some people manage houses that are being rented out. Depending on the clients you have live there, you could be on call most of the time. Some clients are demanding and are in constant need of something to be fixed. Real property management managers try to be on top of all their regular tasks and check ups so there are no surprises. Unfortunately, there is never a way to predict the future. All you can do is stay on top of what you feel needs to be checked on regularly.</p>
<p>Real property management is not for all types of people. If you already have a lot going on in your life, then you do not have a lot of time to give to this profession. The pay could be good for your lifestyle and needs, but the demand on your time, might offset the profits in your pocket. Take some time and find information on the regular duties of a manager and see if that is for you. </p>
<p><a href="http://maryland-odenton-21114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Odenton Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=996" title="Property Manager - Start Your New Career Today">Property Manager - Start Your New Career Today</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 13 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Property_Manager_-_Start_Your_New_Career_Today.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Get Paid To Travel And Play As A Secret Shopper]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Get_Paid_To_Travel_And_Play_As_A_Secret_Shopper.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Heather sat at the desk in the corner of her dining room and sighed every time she had to write another check. She really thought that after tax rebates and stimulus checks she and her family could go on vacation together later this summer. Unfortunately, she did not anticipate the extra 200 dollars per month her husband would be spending in gas to get to work. </p>
<p>She thought about taking a second job to help offset the cost of gas and maybe, just maybe save up enough to go on a weekend trip to the lake. Even if they can not afford to fly to Florida this year, just a weekend getaway would do wonders to relive everyones stress. </p>
<p>After she paid the last bill her paycheck could stretch to cover, she opened the classified section of the newspaper. Nothing seemed interesting or practical for her. She already has a full time job and does not have a lot of flexibility for a second job. </p>
<p>She puts the paper down and gives up. She would rather spend her free time with her family than at another job, even if it means no vacations this year. </p>
<p>Several days later, Heather is still daydreaming about a lounge chair on the beach. She unconsciously begins to surf around on the Internet for discount travel packages. There are several viable options but she still is not sure that even the 500 hundred dollars for the hotel room, as great a deal as it is, will work. How will she get there? It costs too much for gas and would take too long to drive. Flying is expensive too and she will have to pay extra to check her bags. Since when was taking a vacation so stressful!</p>
<p>In one last ditch effort, she searches for more discount travel destinations. She is excited to see a website advertising a free travel program. It seems like this company has a secret shopper program that asks passengers to take a survey in exchange for free travel expenses. Could this really be true?</p>
<p>As quick as she can type, she enters her information to join the secret shopper program as an undercover tourist. Soon enough, she is lead to a page where she lists any experience that might prove she is qualified to test several areas of travel and leisure industries. She is surprised to find herself well qualified to shop gold courses because of her knowledge of the sport. She is also glad she knows a thing or two about hospitality. Aside from the scary news coverage shows that report what the dirtiest things in hotel rooms are, she use to work as a housekeeper for a cleaning service. That experience gave her a good eye for what other people might overlook.</p>
<p>This secret shopper program has saved her hopes of having a family vacation this year. She submits all her information and waits patiently to receive an assignment. Finally her secret shopper program sends some job requests through. They are for destinations in Arizona near the golf courses and tourist hot spots there. </p>
<p>Luckily, she had saved up some time off work for a vacation anyway and once she cleared her schedule and coordinated it with her husband, they were off to Arizona on a free trip from her secret shopper program .</p>
<p><a href="http://maryland-odenton-21114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Odenton RV Storage&nbsp;</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=995" title="Get Paid To Travel And Play As A Secret Shopper">Get Paid To Travel And Play As A Secret Shopper</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 13 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Get_Paid_To_Travel_And_Play_As_A_Secret_Shopper.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopping Raises The Bar To Stay Afloat]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Raises_The_Bar_To_Stay_Afloat.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Sales industries, while seeing some growth over the last quarter, are uneasy about the tight pocketbooks of most consumers. Consumer spending is being cut because families do not have extra money to go out to eat, buy new clothes, make those renovations to the house or go on vacation. Their extra money is going into the gas tank and maybe paying loans with raised interest. </p>
<p>It has become more important than ever for a sales based business to capture every opportunity. But does a business manager or owner have to just blindly trust that all his associates are doing their part to make every customer count? No, he can use secret shopping services to give him a true, unbiased opinion of what sales opportunities are being lost. </p>
<p>Keep in mind that the most effective secret shopping services go beyond reporting if the associate said hello within 10 seconds or if they had their name tag on. All those practices can be controlled without needing an outside expert to tell you so. </p>
<p>Secret shopping services should be sales focused and this is where the quality control and shopping industry must go if they want to stay in business with businesses who are pressured to cut spending. Shopping services have to report on habits and techniques that are working to the advantage of a sale and also critique those which are not. That is what makes successful secret shopping services . </p>
<p>Consider this. You are the manager of an Ultimate Buy Electronic store. There may be 5 to 10 associates on the sales floor at any given time. You cannot possibly listen to all of them, all of the time. You have not been meeting your budget goals and you see customers walking out of the store without a purchase in hand. </p>
<p>The latest shopping service report showed that Jane had her shirt tucked in and greeted the customer within just a few seconds of being in the home theater department. The shopper report shows a check mark in the field indicating that Jane asked if the customer needed any help. The report also shows that the shopper asked about the comparison of two TVs and Jane told her the difference.</p>
<p>What are missing from that report are the sales details. Did Jane genuinely offer to help the customer or did it seem she only asked out of obligation for her job. Did Jane offer to demonstrate the two TVs to the customer and find out what brought them in to look at TVs. Did Jane use any closing questions or also recommend accessory products or the extended warranty? Did Jane connect with the customer and close the sale?</p>
<p>We sales managers have been conditioned to look at reports from our secret shopping services for a few quick seconds and then hand them over to our associates. Do we realize that we are missing pieces of the puzzle? We have the framework, but we can not see the whole picture without knowing the sales specific details of our customers experiences.</p>
<p>The quality control and shopping industry does have a few providers who offer these top notch sales shops. Will they become the last man standing as other businesses realize they are paying for less than quality shops or will we sales managers continue to look at ineffective reports and be none the wiser?</p>
<p><a href="http://maryland-odenton-21114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Odenton Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=534" title="Secret Shopping Raises The Bar To Stay Afloat">Secret Shopping Raises The Bar To Stay Afloat</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 13 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Raises_The_Bar_To_Stay_Afloat.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Property Managers Are Jacks Of All Trade]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Property_Managers_Are_Jacks_Of_All_Trade.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Do you know what property managers do? It sounds like a pretty wide term, right? And probably comes with a job description that is too complicated to understand. Well, it does not have to be. It is true that there are many different areas of expertise that property managers have to be knowledgeable in. But if you are willing to push your limits and extend your knowledge and experience, drawing all your talents and education into play, this might be a job that would appeal to you. </p>
<p>Most property managers will have a college degree of some kind, either in business or in some similar field of education. Many agents in the housing market nowadays are self employed, as are many investors and business owners. This means that you are your own boss, and can develop your own management style and guidelines.</p>
<p>There are several different reasons that people in this field do what they do. One is that when you are employed in this kind of job, you have enormous potential for high amounts of income and profits, whether on properties or otherwise. Through your hard work, you can develop and increase the value of the properties that you manage, making your job that much more profitable. Another take on good reasons for going into this line of work is the more personal aspect. You get to work with people, many times one on one, and help them perhaps find the home of their dreams, maybe help them find a rent or mortgage that is manageable and affordable to their budget. In short, you get to help, in your own way, people become happier with certain aspects of their lives, something that might never have happened through a bigger company or people they speak with constantly on the phone.</p>
<p>There are certain aspects as well that some might consider the tedious side to a property managers job. These include things like the day to day management of budgets and the overseeing of bookkeeping, the overseeing of any possible associates who work beneath them, the negotiation of contracts for various things such as groundskeeping, trash services, etc., among many other things that seem to add up.</p>
<p>There are of course governmental rules property managers have to abide by and enforce. People with disabilities have to be considered properly, discriminatory practices cannot be even hinted at when taking on renters whether it be discrimination against age, race, finances, or otherwise. The buildings and grounds themselves have many different codes that someone in this position would have to make certain are followed, from local to State to even Federal codes. Depending on your qualifications with this position, you may be responsible for personally inspecting the grounds and buildings for safety issues. If not, it would be responsible to hire someone to do this job. </p>
<p>Establishing the rates that will be charged in rent could also fall under your responsibilities with this position, as well as the hire of leasing agents and organizing detailed and effective advertising campaigns. There are many more responsibilities associated with this type of job, but if you enjoy a challenge, have a mind for business, and enjoy seeing the fruit of your work on a day to day basis, this might be a very reasonable option for you to consider.</p>
<p><a href="http://maryland-odenton-21114-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Odenton Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=514" title="Property Managers Are Jacks Of All Trade">Property Managers Are Jacks Of All Trade</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 13 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Property_Managers_Are_Jacks_Of_All_Trade.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Self Storage For Your Closet Or Entire House]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Self_Storage_For_Your_Closet_Or_Entire_House.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Anyone who has ever looked into the prospect of renting a temporary housing facility for some of their unused furniture, boxed items, vehicles, ATVs, boats and the like has undoubtedly walked into a self storage building to check out the prices, terms of service and the units themselves. It is possible that you may have experienced this, yourself, at one time or another. If you happen to be the type of person who prefers to visit multiple companies to gather as much information as you can before you commit, then you have seen more than one facility. No doubt you have already concurred that there are many differences in style, size, price and features among the industry.</p>
<p>A self storage building can range in size from just a few 5x5 foot units to hundreds of rooms to be filled. These buildings can be made of wood, concrete, metal or brick. They can be old warehouses, converted grocery stores and supermarkets, or specially designed structures that are perfectly suited to the task for which they are constructed. A self storage building can be a single level structure, or built in multiple levels, with the individual units being accessible by large elevators. </p>
<p>Each self storage building will vary in size depending upon where you go and what your needs are. Some individual units are as small as a coat closet and others are as large as a 3 car garage, with every size in between. The possibilities are virtually endless as to the enormous range of items that these rooms are able to contain. Many facilities are expressly designed to be weather proof as well as fire proof. Many buildings even has climate controlled units for rent, which is to say that the units remain a comfortable room temperature at all times, so as not to expose your belongings to extreme heat or cold. This makes it more conducive to storing things like paper files, old records that would warp in the heat, precious works of art, clothing and antiques, without having a fear that they will be damaged by moisture, mold or insects.</p>
<p>Most facilities have paved parking lots that feature ample room to maneuver large moving trucks on and off of the property. The owners of these businesses understand that its patrons require easy access. At the same time, many of these businesses have opted for security gates to be installed around the entire perimeter of the property. The computerized gates require pin codes to be entered on a keypad or specific cards to be swiped in order for the gate to open and allow access to the site. The owners of such a self storage building want access to be easy for you, but not for would be thieves. Many of these facilities have surveillance cameras posted at various locations throughout the premises, as an extra measure of protection for your belongings. The parking lots are well lighted, making night time moving easier. Some facilities even have individual unit alarms available, for added security and peace of mind. The days of a simple pad lock and a corrugated metal door are not yet entirely gone or forgotten, but they are rapidly being replaced by high tech solutions in our fast paced world. It has never been safer or easier to store your belongings in a worry free environment than it is right now, in todays storing buildings.</p>
<p><a href="http://maryland-waldorf-20601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Waldorf Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=905" title="Self Storage For Your Closet Or Entire House">Self Storage For Your Closet Or Entire House</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Self_Storage_For_Your_Closet_Or_Entire_House.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Fall Into Your Next Great Secret Shopping Career]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Fall_Into_Your_Next_Great_Secret_Shopping_Career.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Samantha had a nasty habit of showing up late for her shift at the toll booth every morning. The traffic lines were horrible to begin with, but when she was late motorists began to demonstrate their frustration. Inevitably, her boss fired her and she found herself out of a job.</p>
<p>That was two jobs ago. She is currently sitting in traffic at the very toll booth from where she use to collect a buck fifty from every motorist. She should know better than to not have enough change. She will just hold up the line waiting for the attendant to give her two quarters back. It was days like this that she wished she lived in Missouri, where you could drive through the entire state without coming across one toll, instead of Florida, where it costs the equivalent of a value meal just to get down the road.</p>
<p>Finally, she pulled into the farthest spot left in the employee lot, cursing herself for being late again. Her boss looks mad when she opens the door. She tests the waters by offering a cheerful Good Morning. His response is a wave of his hand drawing her into his office. The door shuts behind her.</p>
<p>As she opens the door and walks back out to the last parking spot, she knows she has only herself to blame, and those long lines at the toll booth. Blast! She is out of a job again. What could she do with her life now? Going back to school is something she has always wanted to do, but that means she has to have time and money to do it. She has to keep working to pay her bills. </p>
<p>It is a vicious cycle. She has to work to keep her apartment and pay the bills, she needs a job but she wants a better job. To get a better job she needs money to go to school and time to do it. She has no money because she can not find a job to pay her bills and school and she has no time because she is busy with her full time job to pay the bills. </p>
<p>She looks up as she puts her key in the ignition and huffs! Someone has placed an ad or solicitation on her windshield. Rather than getting up to reach it, she opens the door, stretches her arm in front of the windshield and swipes the wipers on for a quick chance to reach the litter. OUCH! Sam missed and the wiper only ended up breaking her fingernail. What a day!</p>
<p>She angrily yanks the ad from her car, crumples it up and throws it in the passenger floorboard.</p>
<p>A few miles down the road she remembers she did not buy a soda from the machine at work and so she has no extra change for the 75 cent toll. Could her day get any worse! She is a few cars back in line and as she scrambles around for an extra quarter, she notices the ad she so hastily threw aside a few minutes ago. </p>
<p align="center">Be A Mystery Shopper<br />Flexible hours with local mystery shopper assignments<br />Get Paid To Go Shopping<br />Call Today To Start Your New Mystery Shopper Career</p>
<p>She picks it up to read the phone number and right there under the ad is a shiny new quarter. She smiles and notices that her luck is changing. She had heard of mystery shopper careers, but thought they were only a myth. But it sounds like the perfect job for her, and accommodating to her tardiness problem.&nbsp;&nbsp; </p>
<p>Sam listens to her change clink down the funnel and goes when the light is green. She quickly dials the number from the mystery shopper ad and sets up her interview. </p>
<p>A week later Sam receives an email with her first mystery shopper assignment. She laughs so hard, she can hardly contain herself. It seems her experience makes her the perfect candidate to shop her favorite toll booth. She feels around the bottom of her purse for a buck fifty and heads out the door. </p>
<p><a href="http://maryland-waldorf-20601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Waldorf RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=994" title="Fall Into Your Next Great Secret Shopping Career">Fall Into Your Next Great Secret Shopping Career</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Fall_Into_Your_Next_Great_Secret_Shopping_Career.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Retire To The Lap Of Luxury]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Retire_To_The_Lap_Of_Luxury.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Your parents were devoted to seeing their children succeed. When the rest of the country was in a depression, they made sure to find odd jobs to earn or trade for your education books. And through all that, you learned the value of a dollar. You learned what it meant to save and sacrifice. </p>
<p>Unlike the immediate gratification that the youth of today demand, you understand the satisfaction that comes from a hard day of work and earning what you get. You have lived by those lessons your whole life and so you and your wife were able to provide a top notch education to all your children. You tried to teach them the same lessons you learned as a young boy and you take pride in watching them teach those same lessons to your grandchildren. </p>
<p>The time has come to enjoy life and relax on the wise investments you have made over the years. While you did not think that stock in an air wave could have ever paid off so much, you are grateful that you listened to your broker and now you can retire with a luxury lifestyle. You and the wife have made a wish list of amenities you want in your new condo, like a beachfront balcony with access to the water, a place to keep the boat, and an extra bedroom for guests. And above all, you want it to be located near the golf course. </p>
<p>You take a short look around the Internet and realize there are hundreds of property listings and condominium property management teams out there trying to grab your attention. Before you know it, they all look the same and staying right where you are at is looking like a better option. Thank goodness your wife has stayed so focused. </p>
<p>She is already on the phone with the most impressive condominium property management website and has made an appointment for the Wednesday after next to view the model unit. Of course, being the thrifty wife she is, she made consecutive appointments with comparable condominium property management facilities near one another.</p>
<p>It is a good thing you have her around too. As you drive up to the first condominium property management appointment, she frowns at the unsightly motel right next door. The stucco is painted a dull blue what seems to be from the 70s and has been chipped away by a few too many storms. Clearly the management staff has not maintained their motel. She shudders at the thought of having neighbors the likes of which are staying there as points to the noisy group of teens on spring break. You oblige to take the tour, but are not interested.</p>
<p>Moving on to the second condominium property management appointment, you breathe a sigh of relief. This is more like it. You kindly hand your keys to the valet and tip your hat to the doorman as you enter. Now this is the life of luxury, not only are you on the beach, but your condo fees include a membership to the best golf course in town and discounts for your guests. You are just hoping the condo unit has all those frilly amenities you know your wife will love and are pleased to hear her muffle a gasp when she sees the wall of windows overlooking the water. </p>
<p>Before you leave, you have submitted your application and deposit, just to prove how serious you are. In your heart, you thank your parents for teaching you valuable lessons that got you to where you are now.</p>
<p><a href="http://maryland-waldorf-20601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Waldorf Furniture Storage</a>&nbsp;</p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=993" title="Retire To The Lap Of Luxury">Retire To The Lap Of Luxury</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Retire_To_The_Lap_Of_Luxury.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Types Of Self Storage Customer]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Types_Of_Self_Storage_Customer.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>The self storage industry recognizes that there are many different types of shoppers. It is the managers responsibility to determine which type of shopper that they are talking with and what their needs are for storage. This can sometimes be very difficult when the contact with the shopper is by telephone only. Self storage managers realize that many consumers call around to various locations to check prices before they decide which storage facilities they want to visit. They also realize that some of these callers may not be actual customers, but those who are providing a secret shopping service and get paid to shop the facility on the level of service and information given to the pretend customer.</p>
<p><em>The Secret Caller</em><br />There are companies that are paid to provide a secret shopping service for many self storage facilities because the industry demands each business stay on top of any changes. High levels of competition contribute to each facility striving to provide the best level of service possible, give the most appealing specials, and provide a location that is clean, secure, and easy to use. It is true that managers must first be able to take a basic telephone inquiry and turn it into a visit by the consumer to the desired location. It can be difficult when there are so many options and facilities for the consumer to choose from. The telephone call is the first impression that the facility can give the customer. This is where a good secret shopping service can be an asset to storage managers. It gives each manager a chance to unknowingly practice their customer skills on a basic inquiry call and to receive an evaluation by someone whose job it is to call the facility and secretly inquire as if they were a real customer. This evaluation can show the manager any areas to improve upon. Once managers begin to show improvements in the desired area, another shop may be completed in order to see if the changes the manager made are effective. The secret shopping service provides a way for managers and personnel to continually improve in any area of the call which can help the manager improve in other areas such as giving a great site tour of the location and bringing more consumers to the actual location.</p>
<p><em>The Known Caller</em><br />A good secret shopping service can truly define one facility from another. Those facilities that choose not to hire a service such as this may not provide an enjoyable level of service to consumers that they would like. The managers at these other locations may have some experience that can help with telephone inquiries. However, they may not have the skills necessary to help that consumer understand the importance of physically visiting their facility. Storage managers, with the right training, can help most to understand the value in a site tour and the value of storing at their facility. For many new customers, a manager with these characteristics can be a knight in shinning armor. There have been many times a customer has been in a bind and needed storage. They have called around just to find that many places are sold out or that storage can be a costly adventure. Self storage managers are good at helping the customer determine their exact need, the right size and helping them with a special they will really benefit from. No, one does not have to have a good secret shopping service in order to provide this exceptional level of service, but it is crucial to providing the same on-going level of service to all those who inquire about storage. If the customer chooses not to store at that time, they are more likely to keep the facility in mind that made the best impression.</p>
<p><em>The Service<br /></em>Telephone sales can be difficult because one does not know who is on the other end of the call. It does not matter to storage managers if the caller is a person conducting a secret shopping service or if they are a first time inquirer. They caller will be treated the same. Self storage managers provide great service, attempt to meet the consumers needs, and invite the consumer to come and see the facility for themselves. This has proven to be the best course of action. Nine times out of ten, the consumer will store at a location that makes them feel secure and at ease. What would be better than storing at a location where the management is great, the deals are even better and the experience is second to none. Those companies who invest in a shopping service can truly benefit which will result in higher profits and more customers coming into their facility to store.</p>
<p><a href="http://maryland-waldorf-20601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Waldorf Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=533" title="Types Of Self Storage Customer">Types Of Self Storage Customer</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Types_Of_Self_Storage_Customer.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[The Many Hats Of Property Management]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/The_Many_Hats_Of_Property_Management.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>When looking for a place to rent, you will want to consider the property management highly on your list. Most likely if you are looking for a place to rent, you will have already narrowed down the search to the area you would like to live in and the price range you believe you can afford. However, what many people do not take into consideration is the property management . This can make or break a deal, for many lookers, and it is important to know what to look for initially. First of all, is the person in charge of general property management friendly and helpful, listening to your concerns and questions, having good and sound advice for you as an answer? If so, that is an important first step in the right direction. If you can successfully get along with the manager, or your future manager as in this scenario, you are doing well already. Not only does this make good leeway for your future relationship, which could be of some duration, but it lets you have some insight into how the place is run through this company. For instance, if the manager is friendly and helpful, taking your concerns seriously, it is most likely that he will take his own job seriously as well, keeping up with repair, maintenance, development and cleanliness of his facilities. If, on the other hand, the manager turns a deaf ear to your complaints or requests, it is likely he is doing this to everyone else as well, making the place in general not a pleasant place to live.</p>
<p>For most of us, it is also a good idea to stay away from renting from family and friends, especially the in-laws! While this is a good way to save up some money, it can put a huge strain on the relationship or create tension between friends.</p>
<p>Property management has many facets, you have to remember. It is not simply overseeing things like keeping the curbs clean in the complex or sending someone to fix your dishwasher. When keeping your eyes open for good signs, remember the more large scale things. This job can include the general development of the complex or even the community, depending on location and size. Accepting rent moneys and keeping good track of all transactions is also a huge and very important part of it. Maintenance of a large complex of buildings or even just a few small ones can sometimes be an overwhelmingly large responsibility, thus the larger the responsibility, the more likely that tasks will get delegated to other people. Sometimes these people are hired exclusively by the complex, and sometimes they are hired on a one time only basis as independent contractors. Either way, the final quality and responsibility of the job will go to the manager in charge, so this means a constant awareness and ability to recognize good quality work is necessary. </p>
<p>Because of many legal issues that arise by necessity when renting, often companies will hire their own personal attorney. This of course just adds to the complexity of property management . Most of the time an attorney would only be needed for simple things such as insurances and normal contracts. There are the occasions when they are needed for difficult or tricky evictions or problems within the renting community. Every state, town and individual facility has their own rules and guidelines for renting and managing. An attorney will be familiar with them all.</p>
<p><a href="http://maryland-waldorf-20601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Waldorf Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=513" title="The Many Hats Of Property Management">The Many Hats Of Property Management</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/The_Many_Hats_Of_Property_Management.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Storage Helps Make Room For Baby]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Storage_Helps_Make_Room_For_Baby.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Having a baby is always an exciting event, whether it is you, your sister, your friend, or even someone you barely know. But it takes time, planning and organization, not to mention getting a budget ready for both decorating and the babys needs when he or she arrives. Decorating on a budget can be simple if you just take the time to sit down and go over things for an hour or so. There are many types of things you can do to make your money go further when it comes to a baby budget.</p>
<p>You might need to think about stocking away some of the things you had in that guest bedroom, now that you will be using it for the baby. If this is the case, current self storage prices are such that this could be a good option for you. With self storage prices so low, you can afford to pay for a month, or two, or even more if necessary, while you are planning for your babys arrival. Many companies begin with their self storage prices at only a dollar for the first month, which if you are planning to use the facility for only a couple of months, ends up being a great deal for you. Of course self storage prices vary depending on your location and the size that you would need, among other things, but for the most part, self storage prices are low enough that if you need them for just such an emergency, they is affordable to practically everyone.</p>
<p>When you first sit down to plan for your babys room, it is best to take stock of both what you have already been given, and what you think is likely you will be given, whether it is something brand new from a baby shower or an heirloom passed down from your mother or grandmother. There are also, of course, those friends and relatives who will let you borrow items temporarily, giving them back when your child has outgrown them, such as a high chair or a walker. When you look at this list of items and compare it to what you might have spent buying these things new, you will be amazed at what you have saved already.</p>
<p>One of the biggest and most expensive items you will buy immediately for your baby is the crib. Nowadays the popular thing to buy is something called the convertible crib. This serves several purposes. The mattress has several settings from low to high, and the bars on the side are removable if necessary, growing along with your child. And when your child has graduated completely out of the crib, most of these cribs turn into a full sized bed, with you only needing to supply a mattress for it to be ready to go. This might be a bit more expensive in the short term, but it will save you money in the future, when you realize you do not have to go out and buy an entire bed set with head and foot boards once your child has outgrown the crib.</p>
<p>Another huge money saver is getting things second hand. Garage sales, second hand shops and exclusively children consignment shops are wonderful for finding bargains on things that are many times in surprisingly good condition. Lastly, when it comes to things that are necessary to buy new, such as diaper creams and diapers, go for the generic brands as most of the time you are merely paying for a name and not necessarily quality. It pays to do your homework.</p>
<p><a href="http://louisiana-lack-charles-70601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lake Charles Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=904" title="Storage Helps Make Room For Baby">Storage Helps Make Room For Baby</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Storage_Helps_Make_Room_For_Baby.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[5 Steps To Find A Mystery Shop Job]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/5_Steps_To_Find_A_Mystery_Shop_Job.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Everyone, when looking at the better mystery shop companies, wants to find the best one that will give them the biggest pay out. Well in a perfect world, that would be the greatest thing. We live in a realistic society in which many people are looking for the best way to make a quick buck. </p>
<p>When researching different companies there are a couple of things that you should look for. You should look for the different pay outs, how many jobs are available in your area, will there be a fee, and how the process works. Let us go over the different things to look for and see why they are important. </p>
<p><strong>How much does it pay?</strong></p>
<p>How much a particular job pays should be clearly listed when you accept a particular job. There are some mystery shop companies that will make it plain as day and some that will not make it as noticeable. Most people need to understand that some companies advertise having a multitude of jobs that pay 50 dollars or more, but they do not actually have that many. Most of the time, the companies have many jobs that are 10 bucks or less. At that point, it is up to you to accept the job. After you accept the job you are usually paid one to four weeks after the job is completed. Of course it depends on the company.</p>
<p><strong>Are there jobs in my area?</strong></p>
<p>There most likely will be jobs in your area depending on where you live. There is never a guarantee in which to say you will definitely see a lot of opportunities where you live. Most mystery shop companies are in a metropolitan area in which there are many companies in need of this service. Before you sign up and make a commitment, you should be sure that there is a way for you to have an opportunity to work in your area.</p>
<p><strong>How much will it cost me?</strong></p>
<p>Be leery of this next part. Some mystery shop companies ask you to pay to enroll into their company. Some companies do not. There are many experts that wonder why companies ask for a fee to join their shopper association. Now in most companies, even storage companies, require some sort of fee in order to process your application or do the proverbial paperwork. Sometimes you are paying an annual fee that might be more than you received from that company in salary.</p>
<p><strong>What is the process of shopping?</strong></p>
<p>Each company has a different way of running their business. The basics are that you enroll in the company, create a profile, search and sign up for the jobs that you want, go on the shop and then write a report on what you found out while you were at the company. The more information and insight that you can get from your shop the better the company that you are shopping for can improve their service. </p>
<p><strong>What does all this mean for you?</strong></p>
<p>It means that you have some thinking and research to do. It means that now you have some information on how mystery shop companies work. Find the right company that you feel you can benefit from and profit the most. Understand that if you do enough research you will find the right one that can fit you the best.� </p>
<p><a href="http://louisiana-lack-charles-70601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lake Charles Storage�</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=991" title="5 Steps To Find A Mystery Shop Job">5 Steps To Find A Mystery Shop Job</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/5_Steps_To_Find_A_Mystery_Shop_Job.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Surround Your Real Estate With An Army]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Surround_Your_Real_Estate_With_An_Army.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>There is a long list of numerous things that real estate management firms can do for you personally or for your commercial or industrial business. What you yourself either do not have the time or knowledge for, real estate management firms are there to specifically provide. These companies hire professionals who are trained to specifically be able to hone into your needs and give you the best possible information about what you need to know. Consultants will listen to you list your needs, and then go about collecting and analyzing data that is custom made for you, allowing you to make the most informed and conscious decisions possible about your properties. Whether you are a builder, a manufacturer, an investor or a lender, these types of companies can be one of the greatest tools for you to use when running your properties.</p>
<p>Advice from real estate management firms comes in many types of forms, also according to your express needs. Among advisory services are analyses of resale, turnover, competition rates, demographics and even floor plans for a building or specific business. With multiple experienced employees with combined years of direct experience and supervision of projects like yours, you will be hiring a veritable army of helpful advice, ideas, suggestions, lists, analyses, estimates, plans, strategies, etc. These experienced people can help to make suggestions on improvements to your property, thus making your more money in the long term through their expert knowledge of project performance.</p>
<p>Many times, real estate management firms will give monthly analyses of the market, to keep their clients up to date on any significant changes they need to know about. And with the market as it is today, there could not be a more advantageous aid than this. With someone who knows in detail what your companys needs are and has their finger on the pulse of economy as well, you can know the true state of the market which will allow you to make the best possible decision for your properties. Whether regional or nationwide, you can get comprehensive charts and data that let you get a visual idea of what you are working with when it comes to monitoring the market.</p>
<p>The hire of real estate management firms does not have to be limited to large professional businesses. A small company, or even an individual, may seek the advice of a consultant, for many various reasons. An individual who is wishing to sell, improve, or make updates to his home may wish to hire an experienced consultant to give objective suggestions on what can best be done to make his house sell better. Perhaps someone looking to buy a house is unsure of what they should be looking for, and wishes to meet with a consultant to get the real dirt on the current market before he plunges in. Someone who wants a sort of unspoken guarantee that a normal agent would not be willing or able to give. </p>
<p>Among other things that these companies do are appraisals, extensive developmental projects, new constructions, leasing, property acquisitions, etc. Whether commercial, industrial or residential, these companies usually will provide you with the best possible services that are specific to you and your companys needs. You might pay more at the beginning for such services, but when you see the results, you will be glad you did.</p>
<p><a href="http://louisiana-lack-charles-70601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lake Charles Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=992" title="Surround Your Real Estate With An Army">Surround Your Real Estate With An Army</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Surround_Your_Real_Estate_With_An_Army.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Use Secret Shops To Add To Your Income]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Use_Secret_Shops_To_Add_To_Your_Income.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Many businesses hire researchers to evaluate the performance of their business from a customer point of view. Shoppers are sent on assignments by a mystery shopping company that has been hired by these businesses. This service has been around for many years as an important instrument companies around the world use. Recently this industry has become a growing and popular source of additional income for many. There is a lot of competition for these easy jobs. Someone wanting to become a secret evaluator needs to find a legitimate, reputable company to work for. </p>
<p>The mystery shopping company you choose may not be the same as all the other companies. You will need to research different companies by comparing the shopping assignments, the pay and their reputation within the organization. There are more than 400 of these research companies in the United States and many others in around the world. </p>
<p>You need to be aware of scams by some deceptive companies. There has been an increase in these companies scamming individuals in the past few years. One such problem has been the fraudulent cashiers checks that are paid to the shoppers. Some of these companies will not require a fee to become a shopper but fail to reimburse the shopper when they have completed their assignment. There are few signs that an offer might not be legitimate. You receive money from them before agreeing to shop and it is an extremely large amount. You receive a check or cashiers check from another country. Be wary of a check with differing names on the check and the letter received. You searched the Internet for the company and could not find them or they were not associated with mystery evaluating in any way. Another signal is the assignment you were given was random and generalized. Another sign that the company is a fraud is the number for the company is a cell phone. </p>
<p>A true mystery shopping company is a legitimate organization that employs top quality researchers and clients, does not charge a fee to join and take researching services seriously. The company should provide a necessary service to businesses and have the shoppers best interest in mind. </p>
<p>Research several companies learning about their history. How long has the mystery shopping company been in business? What types of industries do they typically service? How many clients do they have? What are payment terms and reporting expectations? Do they have a customer satisfaction team available to answer any questions? Spend the extra time to investigate before signing on.</p>
<p>You can find a mystery shopping company by reading blogs and searching the Internet forums for these types of companies. You will be able to read from other real shoppers about their experiences and companies looking for evaluators. The people on these blogs and forums post comments on companies to avoid as well. Many companies accept online applications as well. Research companies at libraries and bookstores. Get recommendations from other shoppers.</p>
<p>You should be able to read actual references by the clients of the company. Feedback given from hotels, retail shops, restaurants, theatres and other businesses who use the companys services offers the would be shopper insight into the various types of companies that will work for them. </p>
<p>The growing field of providing shopping services has grown in the past few years. Companies need evaluators to help find the areas of their business that need improving. They find these shoppers through real companies that provide the services.</p>
<p><a href="http://louisiana-lack-charles-70601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lake Charles Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=532" title="Use Secret Shops To Add To Your Income">Use Secret Shops To Add To Your Income</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Use_Secret_Shops_To_Add_To_Your_Income.html</guid>
</item>
<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Rent Or Own - Is The American Dream Changing?]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Rent_Or_Own_-_Is_The_American_Dream_Changing.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Living in a rental is a different experience for every family. Each person that rents rather than purchases a home has differing opinions on the subject. For many families, a lease is an opportune way of giving themselves a temporary housing solution that will enable them time to save up a down payment towards purchasing their own home. For them, owning a home of their own is the ultimate goal. Why? Perhaps owning a home has become symbolic of the American Dream, of figuratively making it in the adult world and proving that they are capable of sustaining themselves and providing for their families. It is a measure of success to own a home for many people, but not for all people. </p>
<p>Is it fair to say that if you do not own your own home that you have somehow failed yourself and your family? Despite the opinions and propaganda of real estate companies and home improvement centers, the answer is a resounding no. A person can happily sustain themselves and their family in a rental situation. I say happily because if the furnace breaks or the garbage disposal conks out, the owner of the home is the one who must fix the problem, not the tenant. And quite honestly, not everyone has a desire to have a thirty to fifty year mortgage around their financial neck. Who wants to be 250,000 dollars or more in debt? It seems ridiculously silly to some people, putting oneself at the mercy of the financial institutions only to eventually face the prospect of selling the home when they grow tired of it. Not only that, but the property taxes, insurance costs, upkeep and improvement of the home will be a huge responsibility until the time comes to finally sell. Perhaps they will make a little bit of profit, if the market is strong. Perhaps they will barely break even. Will it be worth all of the effort and stress? That depends on the individual. </p>
<p>Choosing a rental , on the other hand, offers many families a sense of freedom. They have no mortgage, only rent. They have no property taxes or homeowners insurance to pay. Should they grow tired of their living situation, they can move easily and without months or even years of trying to sell a home that they no longer want. Living in a rental can be every bit as wonderful as owning a home, and in some ways, even more wonderful. Of course there are always tenants that have the attitude that it is not their home so why should they bother. These are the tenants that pain the home owners the most. People who leave and do not clean up their messes, and people who disrespect the home itself are problem tenants that unfortunately pop up from time to time. There are bad apples in every barrel, but that is true no matter where you look in this world. Thankfully, only a handful of the apples are rotten. </p>
<p>Many families are amazing and responsible tenants, who go the extra mile to make small home improvements on their rental just for the sake of adding beauty to the place. Whether it is a new coat of paint in the bathroom to liven up the space or a beautiful herb and flower garden in the front yard, tenants can take pride and even feel a sense of ownership to some degree when they live in a rental .&nbsp; After all, it may not be their house forever, but it is their home for right now, and to many people, that means more to them than financial ownership ever could.</p>
<p><a href="http://louisiana-lack-charles-70601-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lake Charles RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=512" title="Rent Or Own - Is The American Dream Changing?">Rent Or Own - Is The American Dream Changing?</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Rent_Or_Own_-_Is_The_American_Dream_Changing.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Self Storage Jobs - Build A New Career]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Self_Storage_Jobs_-_Build_A_New_Career.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Finding a job is on the mind over 8.5 million Americans. Many of them would settle for an average paying job, let alone hold out for a career building position. But there are career making positions available that some job hunters may have passed over. One great example is are self storage jobs . </p>
<p>Here is an industry that has seen a burst of growth over the past decades and is developing into a proper real estate management industry. One of the best self storage jobs to have are as the property managers. The manager of a property is likely to live on the site. You may consider that the downside at first, but once you think about it, your employer is paying your rent. So the compromise is that you may have an unconventional backyard, but the benefit is that you do not have to pay rent. These positions are not given up very often, so if you are lucky enough to find one open, put your best foot forward and apply. </p>
<p>Once you have some years of experience as a property manager under your belt, you can transfer among facilities within your company or even get hired on by the competition. Using your experience to your benefit will allow you to seek better pay and more benefits as you progress in your career. </p>
<p>However, if you want to be successful and experienced in self storage jobs such as the property manager, you should be somewhat relocatable. This is because the company you work for will likely have stores spread across many states. And you may find another position open within your company or another that is hundreds of miles away.</p>
<p>Like most careers, the more seniority you hold, the more pull you have. If your company has a facility in Florida that has an open position, you are more likely to get first dibs if you are a loyal manager.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, to get self storage jobs like this one, you do need some real estate or property management experience. Perhaps you were once a real estate agent or worked for a management company. Even those with apartment management experience would easily transition into one of these self storage jobs . </p>
<p>If you do not feel qualified to be the property manager, do not give up yet. Apply for the assistant manager position and learn the ropes of all the duties of a property manager. Soon enough a position will open up within your company. Most storing companies prefer to promote from within.</p>
<p>To get a promotion, you should do your best and make an impact in the sales and customer service of your store when you are still the assistant manager. Going above and beyond your call of duty will show your owners just how valuable an employee you are.</p>
<p>Not only will going the extra mile get you promoted faster, but it will protect you in the case of downsizing. Think about it, not just in the storing industry, but at any job, if your boss has to lay off either you or your coworker and you are always excelling at your duties, then you have more job security. And job security is certainly something Americans can appreciate to in times like these.</p>
<p>The important thing about having a successful job hunt is to use a critical eye on every advertisement, but to keep an open mind to new industries you may not have considered before.</p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-lexington-40505-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lexington Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=903" title="Self Storage Jobs - Build A New Career">Self Storage Jobs - Build A New Career</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 10 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Self_Storage_Jobs_-_Build_A_New_Career.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Steps To A Successful Mystery Shopping Program]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Steps_To_A_Successful_Mystery_Shopping_Program.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>The most competitive company does what ever they can in order to stay on top. You can look at various types of companies from fast food, consumer electronics or even supermarkets, and see that there are one or two companies that are pulling out all the stops to stay on top. Different companies bring in focus groups, conduct exit surveys and go out in the community to see what they can do to better serve their customers. </p>
<p>If you really think about it, it is an educated guess on what we can do to improve our business. After we get all the insight possible, then what do we do with that info?&nbsp; It is important to be smart with all the information you gather from the customer and formulate an action plan on how to improve.</p>
<p>You will find that many companies turn to mystery shopping services in order to validate what the company wants their employees to do. The behaviors of the employees that work for you are absolutely essential to the success of your business. If the employees are not doing what you are paying them to do, then they are hurting your customer service and also your bottom line. </p>
<p><strong>What Does A Shadow Shopper Service Offer?</strong></p>
<p>What kind of mystery shopping services would a company like this offer your company? Well there is a laundry list of different things they can do for you. They can do such things as shop your employees to ensure they are saying what you expect them to say, customer surveys, and other services. With so many mystery shopping services available we could be here for a while talking about them all, but we will focus on the process of how a shop is done from beginning to end. </p>
<p><strong>Behind the Scenes of a Shadow Shopper</strong></p>
<p>Most mystery shopping services create a program that they can use to assist you in reaching your goals. When you have defined what your action plan is or your plan of attack, you have to implement the plan. No matter what kind of plan that you have, you have to be able to put that plan into action. Whether it is that you want to see what your employees do to react to a certain situation customers put them in to how they combat the dreaded extreme price shopper. </p>
<p>So now that you know what the plan is and you are ready to execute it, the mystery shopping services agent that will conducting the shop needs to prepare them. They gather all the information they can about your business in order to make it appear to be as if your associates are talking to an actual customer. Then when the shopper is ready, they go into or call your company, and conduct the shop. </p>
<p>When the shop is complete, the shopper will record the information down and then create a report informing you on their findings. The shopper was supposed to ask the questions the company they work for wanted them to ask. So now the company has the information they require. This will also give them the opportunity to see if your employees are doing the job they are paid to do. </p>
<p>All the above steps in this process are easy. All they involve is just some sit down planning and then some fun shopping. The real test is to see if the company paying for these mystery shopping services is going to use the information they received to make a huge impact in the market place. It is pointless to pay a company hundreds or thousands of dollars to shop their employees or competitors and then do nothing with the information gathered. </p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-lexington-40505-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lexington RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=990" title="Steps To A Successful Mystery Shopping Program">Steps To A Successful Mystery Shopping Program</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 10 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Steps_To_A_Successful_Mystery_Shopping_Program.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Will Residential Rentals See A Market Increase?]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Will_Residential_Rentals_See_A_Market_Increase.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Considering the rising unemployment rate combined with families in over their heads with a mortgage payment, there is one industry that may grow as a result of all this negative change. The residential real estate management industry may find itself with more tenants than it has had in the past years. </p>
<p>Think about it, families who were already under pressure to pay large house notes who then find one or both providers out of a job could be forced to leave their house. The next step would be for them to find an apartment or place to rent. After a foreclosure, damaged credit scores are likely to prevent them from borrowing money for another house. Therefore, family rental properties and residential real estate management may see a higher demand for the next year or so.</p>
<p>Another factor that may have families relocating are rising gas prices. There does not seem to be an end in sight as to how high gas prices might go. Even if we began searching for other energy sources, they would not hit the mainstream for 5-10 years. Many families living in rural communities travel 30 or more miles one way just to get to work. Soon enough, it would be more cost effective for them to relocate closer to their employment. The easiest way to do so would be to sell their home and find an apartment or home available to rent through a local residential real estate management service.</p>
<p>On a positive note, the residential real estate management industry has some job security since there will be much demand for their services. It may be one place for those seeking a job to look. Any experience in real estate would give you a great base to build your resume to apply for a residential real estate management&nbsp; position. </p>
<p>Before you interview for a real estate manager position or any job, you can do a few things that may help you stand above the rest of the applicants. For one thing, you should always strive to make a great first impression. While what you wear is important, how you wear it and how you carry yourself says much more about you. If you sit with your arms crossed, you are silently saying that you are closed off or defensive. So sit with your arms to your site of on your lap during the interview and avoid fidgeting with your skirt or suit jacket. Body language and tone of voice are the most important influences in communication. Also, try to keep a comfortable amount of eye contact, without staring down the other person.</p>
<p>Specific details about real estate managing jobs beforehand are legalities such as State and local landlord and tenant laws and even property maintenance experience. Keep in mind that management companies need office workers and maintenance workers. If you are a construction worker who is feeling the strain of the tight wallets of your clientele, consider taking on a maintenance job. </p>
<p>In many cases, the management company will house the maintenance worker and his or her family in one of the apartments in the community so that he or she is nearby for emergency maintenance issues. Of course, this means you would be on call but it also means you have a secure job in a secure industry.</p>
<p>We will see if this theory holds true for the apartment and rental industries, but it seems logical that when families are forced to downsize their home or change their lifestyle, renting is only the natural choice. </p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-lexington-40505-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lexington Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=989" title="Will Residential Rentals See A Market Increase?">Will Residential Rentals See A Market Increase?</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 10 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Will_Residential_Rentals_See_A_Market_Increase.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[3 Ingredients to Self Storage Secret Shopping]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/3_Ingredients_to_Self_Storage_Secret_Shopping.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Self storage facilities are used to getting a lot of calls. This is also true during peak seasons and times during the year including summer time and the end of the month. Many times the facility gets calls from consumes that are inquiring about storage with a genuine need. Other times, the facility may get a call from a person whose job it is to secretly evaluate them in a number of different areas. These calls can typically be harder because the shopper may not be forth coming with the information necessary to determine a need for storage. This type of shopper usually belongs to a company that specializes in secretly shopping stores for information without the intentions of committing.</p>
<p><em>The Purpose</em></p>
<p>The purpose of a secret shopping company is to routinely evaluate the level of customer satisfaction that the manager of a particular facility offers to outside consumers over the phone. This call is completed routinely, as stated before, because it is important for the manager to practice and try to improve in any area that he or she may need to work on. The important thing to remember is that the manager will recall what aspects are necessary to mention to each caller in order to prevent any surprises for the consumer. This shows continual improvement in the personnel and facility, and will result in a better first impression with most consumers. The secret shopping company ultimately has one goal. It is to help the facility that employs them to improve. Keep in mind that this can mean that the improvements can be in any area of the call including the basic flow and transition of the call. The specialized service that the secret shopping company provides, allows for a lot of experience to be shared amongst those that make the shopping calls and the managers at each location.</p>
<p><em>The Call</em></p>
<p>The steps to a great self storage call are simple in nature. It is desired for the greeting by the manager to sound enthusiastic and happy for them to be answering the phone. This immediately helps the caller to fell comfortable and confident in the person assisting them. It is also important to make sure that the person has called the right location and one that is convenient for them. This can ensure that the caller did not incorrectly dial the telephone number thinking that they have called another, more convenient location. The manager has a chance to help the customer decide if the location is nice and convenient for them. The employee for the secret shopping company must be able to confirm that they know where the facility is so that the manager does not know that they are not in the area. This is where the call can get trickier. The shopper must keep their true identity a secret while they portray themselves to the manager as just another inquiring customer. It is the managers choice as to which aspects of storage and the facility he or she chooses to mention to the caller. Size, price, specials, move-in information, and features are among the ones that should be mentioned to every caller. This is also true if the manager suspects that they are being shopped by someone employed with a secret shopping company .</p>
<p><em>The Evaluation</em></p>
<p>The evaluation of a self storage call seems simple, too. The experienced shopper most likely has a lot of guidelines that help them to accurately evaluate many aspects of the call in an unbiased way. The greeting is first and foremost. It is the first impression a consumer gets once they dial the facilitys number. If the manager does not sound like they are happy to be there or too busy to get the customer the time of day, then the consumer is not likely to even come to the facility for a site visit. The manager must earn points and does so by mentioning and covering as many aspects during the call that the caller will allow. Depending upon the type of shop the secret shopping company is conducting, there may be a chance at the end of the call to talk about what areas of the call needed improvement. This type of call is called a responsive shop. These are very important because the manager gets an immediate chance to see their needs for improvement rather than waiting for the secret shopping company to send the evaluation to them.</p>
<p>The reality is that managers do not always know who is on the other end of the telephone when they receive a call. It could be a consumer who is new to storage, a current tenant, a past customer, or a secret shopping company . Regardless of the type of caller, the manager must remember to give as much of the information that the consumer will need in order to determine their need for storage. It is imperative for them to learn from each evaluation and grow in those areas that do need improvement. This will help the manager to become more successful and the facility to provide a better level of customer satisfaction for everyone inquiring about storage with them.</p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-lexington-40505-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lexington Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=531" title="3 Ingredients to Self Storage Secret Shopping">3 Ingredients to Self Storage Secret Shopping</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 10 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/3_Ingredients_to_Self_Storage_Secret_Shopping.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Types of Commercial Real Estate]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Types_of_Commercial_Real_Estate.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Throwing down a wad of money on a new business venture is a risky endeavor any time, no matter what the economy looks like. But for a confident, adventurous business person interested in expanding their investment portfolio and generating multiple streams of income, commercial real estate is one of the many options that they can consider picking from when the urge for new business growth strikes them.&nbsp; </p>
<p>There are quite a few different kinds of commercial real estate properties to investigate when looking at the big picture. In fact, the only type of properties that cannot be categorized as commercial real estate are single family homes and single home land lots. Multi family units, such as brownstones in urban areas, duplexes and multi family apartment buildings are all considered to be examples of commercial real estate. This investment is also known as a residential property. Families and individuals leasing the space pay rent to the owner of the residential property each month, but it is the owner himself who is responsible for making repairs, maintaining the buildings and insuring that all taxes are insurance is paid in full. The dividends pay well in this type of commercial real estate venture, but not without quite a bit of work on the part of the owner. Just managing and maintaining the grounds and tenants can be a full time job. </p>
<p>Another type of commercial real estate is the retail space. Clothing stores, coffee houses, and retail businesses of all kinds fall under this category. Chances are that when you walk into your local book store, the people that own the store do not own the building that houses the store. This means that the store is leasing the space from the commercial real estate owner. If you are said owner, chances are you are making bank. The interesting thing to note about retail spaces is that they typically sign up under what is called a Triple Net Lease. This is music to the ears of the commercial real estate owner. Under the terms of a triple net lease, or NNN lease, the tenant pays for all repairs and upkeep, the insurance as well as all of the property taxes. Add to that the fact that NNN leases are usually long term leases, perhaps between five to twenty years, and your smile will just get bigger and bigger, if you own the property that houses the store. Rent goes up, but your investment in the property remains the same. Not a bad gig, all things considered.</p>
<p>Another type of commercial real estate property is the warehouse and office space. Just like retail space, the warehouse and office space is typically rented out by a NNN lease, and just like retail space, the warehouse and office space is a good bet for a would be commercial real estate owner simply because once a warehouse is built, it is there, ready for leasing, with not too much effort expended on the part of the owner. The NNN lease comes through once again, and that means more money in the bank for you, if you have taken the plunge and dove into the world of commercial real estate. Lets face it, everything in life entails some kind of risk. Investing in commercial real estate can benefit the investor as well as the local economy and the businessman to whom you lease the property. It can be a win-win situation, if you play your cards right. </p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-lexington-40505-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lexington Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=510" title="Types of Commercial Real Estate">Types of Commercial Real Estate</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 10 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Types_of_Commercial_Real_Estate.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Mini Storage Perfect For Season Gear]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mini_Storage_Perfect_For_Season_Gear.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You have stuff you use certain times of the year. Maybe it is the boating accessories you take to the lake each summer or the fishing gear you spend the spring using. Each holiday there are decorations for outside and inside. Your winter sports gear needs a place to stay during the summer. Using a mini storage building is the extra space you need to store your off season things. </p>
<p>The idea of a mini storage building evokes pictures of boxy, metal garage type buildings lining highways and dark industrial areas. The facilities built today are more modern, architecturally pleasing and made to blend in with their surroundings. </p>
<p>There are a few steps to take when picking a facility to store your belongings and packing the items correctly.</p>
<p>Estimate how much space you will need to store your off season items. Make a rough sketch of possible ways to arrange your items so they are organized and easily accessible when you need them. Choose a mini storage building and pack to the ceiling instead of paying for unused space in a larger unit. These mini units are specifically designed for small loads.</p>
<p>Check with facilities in your area to get an estimate on the square footage of their mini storage building . If your equipment takes up vertical space, be sure to get height measurements as well.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Ask about the monthly rental cost and if there is any security deposits required. Is there a minimum time to rent the building? Insuring your contents might be your responsibility so be sure to ask. Find out when you can access your belongings. Most mini store building facilities allow access 24 hours a day for free, but some will have restrictions and charges. Ask what type of security the facility uses. You do not want your valuable gear ending up in the possession someone else.</p>
<p>Will you need a flashlight to access your belongings at night or is lighting provided? Will you need electrical outlets? Ask if the buildings are wired for electricity. Will you need controlled conditions for your items? Storing holiday candles in a building that can easily reach over 100 degrees can lead to disaster. The building needs to be dry for those heirloom linens and electronics. Having your building temperature and humidity controlled usually costs extra. </p>
<p>You should give some thought to how you will organize your belongings. Pack carefully. Use boxes that close in size for easier stacking. Plastic containers will hold up better than cardboard. Leave room to walk between boxes and gear. Fill the boxes to the top with padding to keep them from collapsing.</p>
<p>Treat anything metal with a rust protector. Finding your lawnmower with huge rust holes next spring can be disappointing. Lay plastic sheeting and old bed sheets on the floor to protect from condensation. Leave room around the walls for air to circulate.</p>
<p>Do not store flammables or combustibles in your mini store building. This includes gasoline, oil, cleaning fluids and paint thinner. Empty all gas tanks in your lawn mowers, boat motors and other gasoline powered equipment. </p>
<p>Storing your off season holiday decorations, outdoor furniture, kids toys, winter clothes, golf clubs, skis, bicycles, tools, camping gear, and lawn equipment in a mini storage building allows you to free up space in your home. With a little planning and organizing, you can have your belongings stored and easily accessed when you need them.</p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-frankfort-60162-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Frankfort Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=902" title="Mini Storage Perfect For Season Gear">Mini Storage Perfect For Season Gear</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mini_Storage_Perfect_For_Season_Gear.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Real Estate Lead Management Methods]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Lead_Management_Methods.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>People generally have the mistaken idea that working in real estate simply means that you find someone a house, sell the house, sign some papers and make a commission. Sounds easy, does it not? Truth be told, though, selling the house is actually only a small part of the business of real estate. The events leading up to the actual sale require far more work and effort than closing the deal does. As a real estate agent, it is highly unlikely that you will simply have people walking through your office door all day long looking to get you to assist them in buying a house. So where do these individuals come from then? How do you obtain all of your clients? The answer lies in the leads that you generate. Leads define the pulse and promise of many a sales force, and selling houses is no exception. To be successful in this industry, you need to have a firm grip on your real estate lead management .</p>
<p>There are many ways to successfully acquire leads. Your own website is the most important tool in your real estate tool box. Having a web presence is becoming increasingly prevalent among agents today. Search engine optimization is key in this industry. You need to be visible on the web. This requires some dedication to either learning to do it yourself, or hiring a knowledgeable expert to manage your web presence for you. Becoming visible online boosts your credibility as well as your sales. </p>
<p>Whether you generate your leads through the Internet, publications such as articles, ads in local newspapers, or purchasing the leads from another source, your success depends on your ability to maintain lead management. Real estate lead management can be obtained manually, if you are a well organized individual with an innate sense of dedication to implementing a specific filing and storage system. Using index or note cards filed neatly away under specific headings can work for some people. Use the cards to write down information obtained for each of the leads and as the files grow and change from simply a cold call to a client, rotate them to their appropriate files. It is like a ladder system. The farther up the lead ladder the file goes, the closer you are to closing the deal with that client. Many an agent has used this rather simplistic form of lead management.</p>
<p>Nowadays, though, in an age where technology dominates nearly every market, methods of real estate lead management have not escaped the clutches of modernization. There are some excellent computer software programs on the market today to assist any and every real estate agent in effortlessly implementing real estate lead management skills. These programs are top of the line, user friendly, easy do it yourself ways of organizing your leads from the first cold call to the last signature on the dotted line. This software allows you to track your progress easily, contact the clients through auto responders, incorporate an elaborate file set up for information related to each client, and more accurately match the clients requirements with the right property to suit their personal needs. With the juxtaposition of computer technology and good old fashioned work ethic, real estate lead management can be the backbone of any successful real estate business.</p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-frankfort-60162-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Frankfort RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=988" title="Real Estate Lead Management Methods">Real Estate Lead Management Methods</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Lead_Management_Methods.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopping - Not Just For Restaurants Anymore]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_-_Not_Just_For_Restaurants_Anymore.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>When most people think of a secret shopping service they might imagine a tired, unsuspecting waitress harried and busy from an afternoon lunch rush being shopped by a middle aged woman who is eating alone. The woman is asking for extra napkins and more tea, trying vaguely to engage the waitress in polite conversation all the while judging her attitude, manner of appearance, the quality and timeliness of the food order and several other factors of a typical afternoon dining experience. Though this is a valid scenario that may be played out repeatedly at restaurants all across the country every day, this is by no means a fair representation of just how valuable a secret shopping service can be. Many different kinds of businesses can benefit from a shopping service. </p>
<p>Retail establishments of all kinds can use this valuable tool as a means to gain insight into their employees performance. Sporting goods centers whose cashiers ring up tennis rackets and golf clubs, music stores whose representatives sell top of the line instruments and local grocery store owners alike can all benefit from a secret shopping service in that the employees customer service can be rated at all levels of engagement with the customer, from the front door all the way through the checkout line. Casinos and other recreational venues are prime shopping grounds, as are banks. Anywhere a customer is greeted and serviced by a staff person, you are likely to find these mysterious random shoppers who are there for more than just goods and services. </p>
<p>It is easy to see why a secret shopping service proves to be such a valuable asset to business owners and managers. They provide management with the information necessary to allow for the implementation of new tools, trainings and incentive programs for their employees that are specifically tailored to their businesses standards and values. Even health clubs and other membership based organizations are enhanced by the experience. How does your businesses membership program measure up in the eyes of the customers that agree to join it? How can it be improved or enhanced? How are your members being serviced? These are just a few of the questions that can be answered. </p>
<p>And what if your business is done primarily over the phone? Is there a secret shopping service available to assist in that capacity? Absolutely! Whether you are a Customer Service Representative for a local marketing firm, or you take orders over the phone, your performance can be measured and rated against your companys standards of excellence. </p>
<p>There are even shopping services available in the travel industry. Imagine a company that provides bus tours or vacation packages. Is it possible that they be shopped and rated? Why not? If you were the owner of a vacation package company, would you not be interested in more than just a comment card at the end of your customers vacation? Of course you would, because knowing what the customers best experiences were as well as their disappointments and annoyances puts you ahead of the competition. How? It allows you to modify your business in accordance with your customers needs and wants. You give them more of what they like, and less of what they do not. After all, that is what all companies want to do, is it not? That is what keeps your customers loyalty, and keeps them coming back again and again. Now that is just good business!</p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-frankfort-60162-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Frankfort Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=987" title="Secret Shopping - Not Just For Restaurants Anymore">Secret Shopping - Not Just For Restaurants Anymore</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_-_Not_Just_For_Restaurants_Anymore.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopping - What Goes On Behind Closed Doors]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_-_What_Goes_On_Behind_Closed_Doors.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Do you really know what goes on at all the branches of your business? Do you know without a doubt that every employee is following specific guidelines and being sociable and informative to customers? Are your employees being aggressive or are they just standing behind the counter waiting for the customer to come to them? These are all questions that can be answered very easily. Mystery secret shoppers are a helpful tool that many companies now days utilize. Many times the company you hire these people from will give their mystery secret shoppers special training specifically to do the type of job you are looking for. This means you can relax and know that the quality of your company, something that is one of the most important things about your business, is in good hands.</p>
<p>If you have a business that has been around for any length of time at all, you will undoubtedly have heard of mystery secret shoppers . These are people hired especially to masquerade as true customers in any given business in any needed location. They go through a typical customer experience in your place of business, taking note along the way of various things that they are trained to watch for. Among these things is the quality of service they receive from the employees that you have hired. Also, they remain alert for the cleanliness of the establishment, the general order and smoothness of the service they receive, etc. Many times a company will work with you on an individual business so that you can outline certain criteria you may have in mind for what you wish mystery secret shoppers to look for in your stores. </p>
<p>After the mystery secret shoppers have come and seen, they will go and write. That is to say, they fill out detailed questionnaires about your particular place of business that will in turn be sent to the company they work for, and ultimately to you. The turnover is extremely fast in most cases, many times less than 48 hours, so you will not have to wait long to see results.</p>
<p>Hiring this type of service helps you, certainly, but you might wonder what other reasons you could possibly have for employing such methods. Just imagine for a moment, once you receive the results of a survey, you can go over the points of utmost importance with your other supervisors and staff. This will of course let them know the areas that need improvement. There is no arguing with something like this. You may be the manager or supervisor, but the word of an actual customer will many times hold more weight and value with your employees, making them see the situation in a more realistic light. Also, knowing that there is constantly the possibility that someone is in their midst, unknown to them, observing their movements, will put your employees on their best behavior all the time instead of merely when you are visiting the branch.</p>
<p>Of course, there will be areas, hopefully, that will not need improvement, but that are above average. In this case, the benefit would be that you may reward employees who are working above and beyond the companys expectations. This boosts employee morale, thus improving employee performance and excitement. A happy employee means a happy customer, and a happy customer means more sales, and what could be better for you? </p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-frankfort-60162-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Frankfort Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=530" title="Secret Shopping - What Goes On Behind Closed Doors">Secret Shopping - What Goes On Behind Closed Doors</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_-_What_Goes_On_Behind_Closed_Doors.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Safe Investments In Property]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Safe_Investments_In_Property.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You purchased your first investment property . What an experience! The roller coaster of your emotions ran from the high you get from making the decision to invest to the butterflies dancing inside when you tried to get financing to scared. What were you thinking or feeling when you signed the final documents? In the uncertain economy and job market today, many people are looking for ways to provide a good retirement income.</p>
<p>Deciding to invest is easy. Choosing which vehicle you will develop into income for your financial future is the daunting part. There are many ways to invest such as share market, property, small business or the Internet. Choosing property is a good choice.</p>
<p>The first investment property is a natural progression from owning your own home. Land and property around the world has experienced growth. This favorable market is a good time for the investor to purchase now for resale at a later time. </p>
<p>There are numerous decisions to make as a first time investor. You need to set your goals on the outcome of what you want out of the property. This is necessary in determining the type and area of the property you will be interested in purchasing. Some purchase property for capital gains while others are looking for cash flow. </p>
<p>Do your own market research. It is fine to hire a company to assist you with the purchase, but you will need to do your own market research to know what prices are in the area you are interested in. Check out properties on the Internet for pricing rates as well.</p>
<p>Financing is a very important consideration. No matter what area you purchase property, finding quality sources for your loan can be difficult. You should hire someone with experience and contacts in several banks and financial institutions to get you the best deal.</p>
<p>Your financial advisor will be able to advise you on the best type of loan to get to save you thousands in the long term. There are many different types of loans available, including fixed and variable while a line of credit is another option that is popular in may areas. </p>
<p>You will need the skill of negotiation once you find the investment property you would like to purchase. You will have to negotiate the price. Start with an offer that is below what you would be willing to pay. This allows you the opportunity to buy the investment property at a price well below the selling price. The seller might refuse. In this case come back with a higher price that is still within your budget.</p>
<p>Your emotions are going to run the gamut from elation to depression during the purchasing phase. This is normal. Remember the important thing is you are working on securing your financial future. </p>
<p>There are many other decisions to make once you have successfully purchased your investment property . You will need to decide if you will be managing the property yourself or hiring a qualified company to do it for you. If you decide to manage the property yourself you will need to contract with outside services such as maintenance, groundskeepers and housekeeping services. You will also be responsible for collecting rent, responding to tenant complaints and making necessary repairs. If you decide to hire a company to manage the property, check their references before making a decision. They should be familiar with the type of property and the area it is located. </p>
<p>The roller coaster ride of buying an investment property can be exciting. Educate yourself on pricing, the area you are interested in and what is involved in the managing of the property before you decide to invest in property. </p>
<p><a href="http://kentucky-frankfort-60162-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Frankfort Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=509" title="Safe Investments In Property">Safe Investments In Property</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Safe_Investments_In_Property.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Local Self Storage vs. National Self Storage]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Local_Self_Storage_vs_National_Self_Storage.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Many consumers come across the need for space to store extra items of household goods. Although the reasons for this may vary, each consumer goes through just about the same thing when exploring the many different options they have when looking to store. Many simply pick up the phonebook to look in the yellow pages in order to find local facilities that cater to their needs. Some use the Internet as a way to search for a good facility. Despite the method used in the search, the same question can arise. Should the consumer choose to store with a local company or a well established national self storage place and what are the differences?</p>
<p>For local companies, many consumers use the phonebook as a way to research facilities. The consumer must then go down the list provided by the phonebook. They will then call each facility to determine which places they would be interested in storing and decide which ones they will visit. One should understand that there are many benefits to storing with a locally owned and operated company. The business is smaller and better equipped to handle issues that may come about from day to day operations. The management and owner are local so there are fewer chains of command to go through when trying to inquire about specials and special permission for certain customers as there sometimes can be with national self storage places. These can include extended access hours and specially given discounts. Another benefit of a local company is that the consumer will get the feel of a small town establishment. Many consumers like it when they get that extra special attention because it shows that the business cares about its customers and are willing to show they do at each opportunity.</p>
<p>Many times a consumer will look online for a listing of the type of facility they are interested in. This can save them time and money as they have a webpage to view that contains a lot of information about the facility. This can be easier than calling every single location and can provide information to the consumer that they did not think to ask about. Like locally owned facilities, there are also many benefits from storing with a national self storage place that exceed those given for the local company. Although it can sometimes be difficult to reach higher levels of management, the goal of the national self storage place is to prevent the need to contact personnel in higher positions of authority. Also, the same care is given to the consumer as with a local company because of the level of competition between the local and national market. Despite these two similarities, many national self storage places have built a solid reputation. This reputation can be an asset because it can prove to new customers that the facility is safe, secure, and a great place to store. It is known that a bad reputation can hurt a business while a good reputation can result in more customers choosing to store with that facility.</p>
<p>When pondering the question local versus national self storage , a consumer should be informed of the differences. Understanding the differences in quality, customer service, and products can help one to make a better decision for themselves as to where, when, and how long to store their belongings. On conclusion, this question can be better answered by the consumer. Some prefer a small, homey type business while others prefer to store at a place that in nationally known with a good reputation. Ultimately, the consumer will store with the facility that is clean, secure, easy to use, and that offers them a variety of features and benefits.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-overland-park-66221-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Overland Park Boat Storage</a>&nbsp;</p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=901" title="Local Self Storage vs. National Self Storage">Local Self Storage vs. National Self Storage</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Local_Self_Storage_vs_National_Self_Storage.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[How To Find The Best Mystery Shopping Jobs]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/How_To_Find_The_Best_Mystery_Shopping_Jobs.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Some people wonder how to be a mystery shopper . Before you start applying, you should know what this industry is all about. There might be different views of what the service can do for a company. This service is a way for companies to measure the level of customer service they give to the general public. It is also a way to make sure that the associates are well trained on the products and services that they provide for the customer. </p>
<p>On a side note, if you take time to think about it, and ask yourself if this kind of service is needed in your company, the answer is Yes. Every single company can benefit from this service. How you use the service is up to you but it can tremendously drive results if used properly and consistently. </p>
<p>But let us talk about how to be a mystery shopper ?</p>
<p>First you have to look at yourself. Are you a driven individual? Are you able to give constructive feedback to a company to help them get better at their trade? Can you honestly write down or type out the truth about the level of service you received at that point in time? Are you quick on your feet and able to react to what the sales person says to you? If you can answer yes to all of these questions, then you can start to look for a company that can use your talents. </p>
<p>Where do you look for information on how to be a mystery shopper ? You can find such information all over the Internet, in help wanted ads and through word of mouth. You should explore all the different options there are before you make a decision on which company you would like to work for.</p>
<p>If your mode of exploration is on the Internet, you can type in the keywords how to be a mystery shopper and you will see anywhere from 2.3 million to 6.7 million different links that can give you great insight. Depending on your search engine of choice, you will see many differences on what is displayed.&nbsp; Usually you will see the most visited sites being the first on the list of links and you have the option to visit any of the links to get information. You can even take it a step further and check out multiple sites and gather information, and then choose the path you would like to follow. </p>
<p>If your media of choice to search for information on how to be a mystery shopper is the newspaper, you must find out what days are the best for searching. In most areas you will get the most advertisements on Wednesdays and Sundays. Depending on your area you will get many companies looking for people in need of this kind of job opportunity. Most likely the way you gather information this way is make a phone call and they invite you in for an interview or an informational meeting. </p>
<p>In many different environments, you might find out that the person that sits in the cubical next to you has a great part time job.&nbsp; Through talking to them you find out how the program works and if you believe that you can be part of this business endeavor. It is always good to hear from someone already involved in the program. You are not being sold on an idea, you are being sold on actual proven results from your peer. No matter which way you find the most information on how to be a mystery shopper , you will find out a lot of information. Then the ball is in your court.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-overland-park-66221-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Overland Park Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=985" title="How To Find The Best Mystery Shopping Jobs">How To Find The Best Mystery Shopping Jobs</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/How_To_Find_The_Best_Mystery_Shopping_Jobs.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Real Estate Management Group Services]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Management_Group_Services.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Investors in all types of leasing properties will need a real estate management group to manage, market and maintain their investment. The group handles the monthly details and collections of each property. </p>
<p>There are several important factors the investor should look for in the company they choose. A real estate management group should carry general liability and workers compensation insurance on all their employees. Do they have a fidelity bond? Ask to see proof of the coverage of both insurance and the bond. The company fees should be consistent with other management groups without a lot of variation. If not, why are they lower or higher? Check references about the performance of the company and its employees. </p>
<p>The investor should ask how many years the company has been in business. Find out the specializations of the group. Do they manage mostly small apartment buildings and multifamily homes or are they specialized in business or industrial property? Do they diversify, managing residential and commercial investments?&nbsp; What is their reputation in the industry? How do they manage the property? What computer system and software programs do they use? Is it current? What type of computer back up system do they use? </p>
<p>The real estate management group is responsible for increasing the net operating income of the investment, increasing the property value and protecting the property through insurance, inspections and routine maintenance.&nbsp; Many of the services provided by the group are through third party contracts. </p>
<p>The companies offer a variety of services depending on the investors needs. Some of the basic services provided by a management group include the following items.</p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>Maintenance needs. They will contract with suppliers and service providers to keep the property in safe operating condition. They should keep tenants satisfied and the building in good repair. They provide services to tenant questions, concerns and any emergencies.</p>
<p>They are responsible for collecting rent and other deposits and posting them on a daily basis in the accounting software. They are also responsible for evictions, bill payments to vendors, utility companies and the mortgage payment. </p>
<p>The real estate management group will provide an annual and monthly financial report that includes rents and check registers. They determine and recommend increases in rents and lease renewals. </p>
<p>The group supervises all employees. The building manager, the groundskeepers and others assigned to the property are hired, fired and paid by the group.</p>
<p>The management group does the marketing of the property for renting as well. They create effective and creative marketing sources to handle the advertising of the investment. Many groups have full staff members to handle everything from brochures to websites to local advertising. </p></blockquote>
<p>Other services a management group will offer include some of the following. These are usually offered at a separate fee. </p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>They will do the commercial leasing through a leasing broker. Develop a management plan that includes the neighborhood and regional analysis, financial status and any recommendations. They will act as the brokerage for selling the property and supervise any large improvement projects. Some groups offer consulting services as well.</p></blockquote>
<p>An investor relies on a good real estate management group to manage his investments. The investor will research several management groups before hiring. They will want to have a mutually beneficial working relationship that will increase rents, protect his property and boost the value of the property.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-overland-park-66221-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Overland Park Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=986" title="Real Estate Management Group Services">Real Estate Management Group Services</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Management_Group_Services.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Finding Employment In A Jobless Economy]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Finding_Employment_In_A_Jobless_Economy.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>There are millions of jobs out there in our great nation, alas most of them are taken. Those that are not may have twice or three times the common number of applicant vying for the position. That makes it harder for someone with average or little credentials to get a job higher up the ladder.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, the national unemployment rate is increasing. Analysts attribute the climbing unemployment rate to the poor financial and credit markets. Businesses feel the strain of high transportation costs and low consumer purchasing and decide to lay off workers. However, one of the many opportunities out there is mystery shopping employment . There are many different facets of this type of work and one usually can fit any of those people interested. You can conduct customer surveys, get involved in quality service measurement, focus groups or the most favorite opportunity is visiting companies and shopping them in person. </p>
<p>When searching for mystery shopping employment , you have to be serious about it. You have to mentally understand that you are being hired to drastically affect the way a company does business. A company is paying a lot of money for you to give them an honest look on how their business runs. </p>
<p>One of the many ways you can have employment is through quality service measurement. It can be difficult to measure how well a company actually performs and improves on their customer satisfaction. Some companies spend time trying to obtain customer information. That can come from different forms. When you have that data, you can try to figure out what you need to do in the future to help your company. This type of mystery shopping employment is one of the best ways you can help a company.</p>
<p>We all know that if you have terrible customer satisfaction, you will tell most of the people that you know. It is said that the average person will tell seven to ten people. They will tell their friends and family about what they perceive as the series of events leading them to not wanting to visit that company again. Now on the flip side, when a customer has an outstanding shopping experience, on average they only tell 2 to 5 people. A little bit of a gap there. In this type of service, the company might ask you to conduct surveys to find out what the company can do to better serve the customer if they are given another chance. </p>
<p>Depending on the area in which you live, you might have many mystery shopping employment opportunities. Some people, in fact many people believe that you can get huge pay outs every time you complete your assignment. Unfortunately the average pay out is ten to fifteen dollars. Wow, that was not what you were expecting right? That is why it is hard to make this employment a career. Usually you see people just trying to pick up some extra money. </p>
<p>When searching for mystery shopping employment , you have to be cautious because there are also scams out there that try to use the normal persons desire to make extra money to benefit only their company not the company they are working for. You will see more links on the internet leading you to the scams people are trying to pull instead of actual information on employment. Unfortunately, that is the world in which we live. There are many opportunities for you out there, just pick the one that is the best benefit for you.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-overland-park-66221-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Overland Park Storage</a>&nbsp;</p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=529" title="Finding Employment In A Jobless Economy">Finding Employment In A Jobless Economy</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Finding_Employment_In_A_Jobless_Economy.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Vacation House Rentals]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Vacation_House_Rentals.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Many people choose to rent a house while on vacation instead of a hotel. Vacation house rentals are good options for vacationers to stay in a comfortable place with the amenities of home. Renting these homes takes a bit more effort to find than making a reservation at the local hotel. </p>
<p>Homeowners and investors in popular vacation destinations rent out their homes during peak seasons. The owners often rely on a broker or manager to take care of renting the property. Vacationers can contact realtors in the area of their destination searching for leasing property. </p>
<p>Renting your second home to vacationers is a good way to earn income on property that might normally sit empty many months of the year. Deciding on the best time of the year to rent your property is one question you will need to answer. Popular destinations, such as water sports or skiing make the answer easy. But off season can be a good time as well. Research activities and special events happening during busy season as well as off season and advertise to potential renters. <br />&nbsp;<br />House rentals can be offered to friends and family as well. Send out notices to all the people you know letting them know you are renting out your vacation home. Offer a special rate to these people. Get referrals for future bookings.</p>
<p>The owner may want to place their personal belongings either in a self storage facility or remove them to another residence. Having the items organized and left for the renter to use is another option. This allows the vacationer to have the home furnished and ready to move into.</p>
<p>Finding vacation house rentals on the Internet is another option for the vacationer. Owners list their property on popular websites giving the renter quick access to when the property is available. The sites are divided into categories such as region and availability. The renter will need to know the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, if pets are allowed, and the size of the home as well as how close it is located to nearby attractions. It is also helpful to know if amenities such as cookware and bedding are included. </p>
<p>Vacationers will want to find a home that meets their expectations. They will ask how old the property is. Who wants to spend their vacation dealing with problems with the appliances or the plumbing? Many owners have managers who take care of these maintenance problems. Newer properties rented frequently also employ a maid service to thoroughly clean the home between each new tenant.</p>
<p>The renter will want to know what is included in the agreement. Are basic necessities or just the furniture included? Vacationers need to know if they should bring along bedding, cookware and towels.</p>
<p>Let your renters know your property is ideally situated for vacationers. If it were located in a mountainous area, a ski trip would be perfect. House rentals located along a waterfront are suitable for all sorts of water sports. A rentable home located in a downtown area would be great for a cultural vacationer interested in museums and arts. </p>
<p>House rentals located in popular vacation destinations are a perfect way to add income to your investment. Finding eager vacationers to rent your property can be as simple as listing the property with a realtor or on a popular website. </p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-overland-park-66221-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Overland Park RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=508" title="Vacation House Rentals">Vacation House Rentals</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 07 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Vacation_House_Rentals.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Portable Storage Offers Flexibility]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Portable_Storage_Offers_Flexibility.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Portable self storage is containers provided by a storing company to use in storing or moving your goods. The containers are delivered to a customers residence. The customer then loads and packs them. They are either left at the residence or returned to a central warehouse where the customer can access later. </p>
<p>The containers are secure. There is only one entry that is locked with a key the renter has possession of. The warehouse area the units are stored in usually have sophisticated security systems and climate controlled temperatures. The transport trucks have special security systems to ensure your container and belongings are protected should something unfortunate happen in transit.</p>
<p>Portable self storage containers can be rented for a short period or for the long term. The length of time depends on your own needs. The units can be stored off site at a facility until you need it. Only you can access the container since you have the key to the lock. It will be delivered wherever and whenever you are ready for it. </p>
<p>How much stuff will a container hold? These containers vary in size but the rule of thumb is a 5 foot by 8 foot by 7 foot container is large enough for a room of furniture and belongings. To get the correct size for your needs, talk to your provider on their recommendation. </p>
<p>You can store items while you move or belongings that need to be out of the way while you are remodeling. Furniture, clothing, knick knacks and most items in your home will fit into a container.&nbsp; </p>
<p>These containers are great for someone who is moving, but they can be used for all sorts of storing needs. New businesses can store goods while your storefront is being prepared. Instead of trying to store items in a garage or other personal space, moving the goods into a portable self storage bin will save you space. You can organize the items in the unit by date of receipt or by type of item or any other way you like. When the storefront is ready for business, the container can be moved to the storefront to be unloaded. The units can be retained to store extra stock. <br />&nbsp;<br />You need to consider the size, price and how portable the container is when choosing a portable self storage container. Compare several different suppliers since prices can vary widely.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Find a container in your price range. You should decide before hand your budget and how much you are willing to spend on the container. Be sure to factor into your budget the length of time you will be renting the container </p>
<p>Sizes also vary among companies. Some have containers as small as a closet or larger than your living room. Having a good idea of the size you will need will help you limit your options and dealers.</p>
<p>Check on the portability of the container you choose. Some containers can only be used in one area while others can be moved from area to area. Some companies might move your container for you. The container can be delivered to your address so you can take your time to pack the container. </p>
<p>Portable self storage is convenient and affordable for moving and storing your stuff. The containers are easily transported to your door for loading and delivered to your new residence or a facility for storing. </p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-olathe-66061-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Olathe Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=900" title="Portable Storage Offers Flexibility">Portable Storage Offers Flexibility</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Portable_Storage_Offers_Flexibility.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Real Estate Trends And Avoiding A Money Pit]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Trends_And_Avoiding_A_Money_Pit.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>The latest craze in making profit in real estate is flipping houses. It has proven to be the best way gain relatively instant cash. People find great properties to invest in, they sometimes gut the insides, and then completely redo the property making dramatic or sometimes simple changes. Even though many people are involved in this type of profit gaining, it is definitely not the easiest thing to do. </p>
<p>Most people are on their own and they have one or a couple of people to help them. When you are involved in flipping houses, you do not want to have an army of people involved because you will have to split the property with them. You will see these people usually go after one property at a time because they do not want to be caught having two houses to pay for. At the same time, you do not want to miss out on that cash cow property. That is why it is good to have a good method to manage your real estate investments. </p>
<p>Real estate management is not just defined as a group or a team trying to manage a series of properties to maintain their growth. Real estate management also deals with such things ask risk management, the potential growth of the property, and so many other facets. We will take a look at most of them. </p>
<p>With flipping houses, there is always some level of risk involved. What happens if you choose the wrong property? That could be catastrophic. If you do not take the time to get into the house, do an inspection and be extremely thorough with your walk through. It is hard to predict if a property will be that next great flip for you. With the help of a professional or a real estate management team, they can help you figure out if this or any property is a good investment. They have the experience and know how on accessing the potential risk of every property you invest in.</p>
<p>Keep in mind, there is an also software out there that could come to your aid when you are involved in real estate management . The most organized, extremely resourceful person can see an exponential profit in the flipping house business. With this software you can access all the things that we were going to discuss above. It can help you determine the risk in buying the property you are looking for. It can help you analyze the financial outcome of getting the property you are looking for. Most software out there will give you full reports on which property would be the best investment for you. As stated above, one of the reason people get involved in flipping houses is to make the biggest profit possible. You will need help the first couple of times you try to flip that property, but you do not want to pay someone to give you aid. That is where the management software can help you.</p>
<p>In real estate management , you have to have the patience to make the right decisions. You can have one or many different properties to manage. Do not just think that real estate management is just for those who own multiple properties. The different services offered can help you make a profit on the property you are trying to invest in. When you try to flip a house, it is important that you access the risks and make a great financial case before you purchase it. If you do not plan and access all the angles of this potential profit or risk, you could be a in a world of financial hurt.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-olathe-66061-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Olathe Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=984" title="Real Estate Trends And Avoiding A Money Pit">Real Estate Trends And Avoiding A Money Pit</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Trends_And_Avoiding_A_Money_Pit.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shop Like You Mean It]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shop_Like_You_Mean_It.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Are you an individual who truly enjoys the variety of dining out at different kinds of restaurants, from fast food chicken huts to four star bistros? Do you enjoy patronizing establishments such as health clubs, hair salons, coffee houses and retail stores? Do you have some free time throughout your day and would rather be doing something productive and beneficial, and enjoy getting out of the house? Most importantly, would you like to earn some extra money while assisting businesses of all different kinds in improving the quality of their goods and services? If you have answered yes to some, if not all of these questions, then why not consider some of the best mystery shopping gigs in town as your source for fun, experience and money? </p>
<p>There are many benefits in doing this type of work, but remember that even though the work itself may seem like play, it is serious business to the companies that enlist you to do an evaluation of their service. This is a job, and as such, the best mystery shopping evaluators will have a variety of innate skills that they use in order to give quality feedback. A keen eye for detail is one such skill. While standing in a line at a clothing store counter, for instance, and you notice that the cash register is giving the clerk some difficulty, make a note of that. Perhaps there needs to be more thorough training, or even updated equipment. </p>
<p>Something as simple as noticing that trash cans are too full, the salad is wilting, the bus boy smiled at you nicely or the bathroom was not clean are important details that the company wants to know about. Pay attention to the good as well as the not so good. In your report, you can praise those employees who exhibit exemplary service, friendly attitudes and concern for your satisfaction. The best mystery shopping evaluations give the company thorough feedback so that they will know what they are doing right, as well as what they need to do to give their customers better value and service. Your keen eye for detail will assist them in that regard. </p>
<p>Another skill that the best mystery shopping evaluators tend to posses is the self motivation to schedule their own hours and accomplish exactly what they set out to do. You will be responsible for completing the jobs that you sign up for. There is no boss in your living room telling you to get to your next assignment. You must be responsible enough to get things done without supervision. In this line of work, it is imperative that you be able to follow through with what you commit to doing. Schedule your days to accommodate only as many assignments as you know for certain you can complete, and no more. Trying to squeeze in too many assignments will be overwhelming, and can potentially lower the effectiveness of your evaluations.</p>
<p>It is important that you be able to communicate well. Whether you are conversing with a staff member at one of your assignment locations, or writing up your evaluation, you are professional, and you must represent yourself in a courteous and honest manner. </p>
<p>Good writing skills and computer literacy will take you farther down the road. You will need to have a knowledge of basic word processing software, as well as email and Internet capabilities in order to have the best mystery shopping experience. </p>
<p>With these tips in mind, you may find that you are a prime candidate for this work. There are many incredible companies out there who depend on people just like you to assist them in determining what is working and what is not in their facility. They will be grateful for your honest feedback, and you will have found yourself the best mystery shopping experience ever.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-olathe-66061-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Olathe Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=983" title="Secret Shop Like You Mean It">Secret Shop Like You Mean It</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shop_Like_You_Mean_It.html</guid>
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<item>
	<title><![CDATA[What You Need To Be A Secret Shopper]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/What_You_Need_To_Be_A_Secret_Shopper.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Prerequisites For Being A Shopper</strong></p>
<p>First, it is not necessary for one to know how to be a secret shopper . One should also understand that there are not any pre-defined requirements in order to be successful. The idea is simple enough, a shopper makes a call inquiring about a product that a store offers. Small, simple questions are natural. However, the shopper should not lead the sales representative in any direction because the idea is to evaluate the representatives level of customer service, proficiency, and knowledge about the products and services offered. </p>
<p>The whole idea of the shop is for the caller to keep their identity and intentions secret from the sales representative, unless the shopper is conducting a Feedback Shop. During a feedback call, the representative is told at the end of the call that they were being shopped and the two parties talk about different aspects of the call and how the sales performance might have improved. With a feedback type call, the level of difficulty rises significantly. There are many personality traits that are helpful when working in this area and learning how to be a secret shopper . These can include being out-going enough to attempt the call with a chosen scenario and processing the call well enough to provide an accurate and unbiased evaluation of the call.</p>
<p><strong>Learning Curve of Becoming A Shopper</strong></p>
<p>Secondly, it is possible for one to learn how to be a secret shopper . One could even become rather good at it. The concept is not about deception. Instead, it is about an honest evaluation. This starts with the shopper knowing at least a basic knowledge about the products and services offered. This is not a requirement, but it is helpful when having to answer a few simple questions. Some of these questions may even involve identity. This is where some people have a hard time. Many people have said that they do not want to be dishonest. However, it is important to have a name, number, and scenario ready if being a shopper is part of the job. Becoming good at this type of job can come with training and experience. The more calls one completes, the more relaxed they may become.</p>
<p><strong>Mastering The Shop</strong></p>
<p>Third, there are some companies that exist that teach and train one how to be a secret shopper . These companies specialize in a variety of training areas. These can include but are not limited to generating reports about the level of quality a business provides as a whole as well as some character training of the personnel they employ. Some people, as mentioned before, feel that they are being dishonest and must look at their task in another way. Other people may tend to lead the call or not keep up with the original scenario that they provided at the beginning of the call. It is fair to say that shopping is not an easy task. There are a few aspects that can prove to be difficult until experience refines the shopper.</p>
<p>Finally, tackling the task of learning how to be a secret shopper can seem tricky at first to an outsider who is looking in, but once the task is complete one can see how simple it truly is. One can also understand and appreciate the reasons for shopping companies in order to determine and improve the level of customer service and efficiency. </p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-67th-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=982" title="What You Need To Be A Secret Shopper">What You Need To Be A Secret Shopper</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/What_You_Need_To_Be_A_Secret_Shopper.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Real Estate Management - How To Be The Best]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Management_-_How_To_Be_The_Best.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You are a great investor of your money. You are not able to make bad decisions and you always profit from your investment properties. Whether it is residential properties or commercial that you own, you they grow exponentially. Your super power is being the best real estate management team the world has ever seen!</p>
<p>One of the reasons that some people need to choose to have a management group take care of their investments is because they should not want just anyone looking over your potential gold mind of properties. Most people with some dollars to save and spend look for the best real estate management team.</p>
<p>Saying you are the best in what you do is a pretty bold thing to say, but if a client or a surveyed website says you are the best, that is an accomplishment. What you need to do is get your name out there with your clients and they can boost your ratings within property investment market. Reputation is everything!</p>
<p>What kinds of things or services make a company the best real estate management team available? There are many reasons you can call a company the best in this field. It could be the professional way they conduct business to the amount of profit they get for their clients. </p>
<p>Being professional with the clients you deal with day in and day out is very important. When a client calls you and either has an issue with their property, wants information on your services, or is ecstatic about some profit they received on a property, you have to be professional. Some people are very, how we say, direct when it comes to their properties. They might fly off the handle and possibly yell at you if they do not like what they see or hear. It is up to you to as the best real estate management corporation in your area or nation, to present yourself in a way that more clients would want to take you on.</p>
<p>You could have such services as risk management, in which you assess the potential risk of each property the customer might invest in. Will it increase in value over the next couple of years or will it stay in its current state. You have to learn to be honest because if you tell a client what they want to hear, when it comes to investing, they may blame you later or even legally fault you for reporting incorrect findings.</p>
<p>As the best real estate management team, you could be there to help your clients find financing in order to purchase the properties they believe will work for you and your lifestyle. Finding the right bank or institution could be crucial to future funding.</p>
<p>Some of the best real estate management teams use some sort of software in order to keep track of their clients or employees. They can keep track to see what their employees or agents are doing to grow the overall business. If an agent is not doing enough to benefit the company, they have a tracker to prove that they need to improve or leave the company. </p>
<p>Being the best at what you do is a great accomplishment for you and your team. You should not be ashamed to say something about it or put awards in a place in which your clients can see it. If they can see your accomplishments they will be more likely to use your services to benefit their investments. Everyone wants to be profitable in the way they invest their money, but a company to help you manage your expenses and profits could greatly relieve some pressure off of your shoulders. </p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-67th-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=981" title="Real Estate Management - How To Be The Best">Real Estate Management - How To Be The Best</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Real_Estate_Management_-_How_To_Be_The_Best.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[How Researchers Improve Customer Service]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/How_Researchers_Improve_Customer_Service.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Researchers are the secret or anonymous shoppers hired by companies. These shoppers evaluate the employee behavior, productivity and customer service skills received at a particular store, service company or hotel. </p>
<p>When an employee is aware of being evaluated they might act differently than in a normal situation. The employees sense of pride, job security, and the desire to please play an important role in the way a worker responds when they know they are being monitored. Employees actions are often to be found more favorable when they know they are being observed. </p>
<p>A professional shopper or researcher is hired to secretly evaluate products, services, employee performance and customer satisfaction. The researcher enters the establishment as a typical customer. The employees are not warned they will be monitored. The shopper reports the attitude, behavior and skills they observe from customer service employees. The shopper observes, critiques and reports the effectiveness or poor quality they received.</p>
<p>Normally a researcher interacts with the employees to rate their performance according to a set of predetermined factors. The employee has no knowledge they are being evaluated. Hiring these anonymous shoppers is an increasingly favorable way of evaluating employees. The shopper observes how quickly an employee responds to the customer complaint, if they provide helpful solutions and offer suggestions, the cleanliness of the store, the reactions of other customers. The shopper is observant and takes detailed notes of the surroundings and staff members. They then send a full report to the client. These reports are objective coming from someone other than management or administration. The observations of the shoppers allow the business owner to get a view of their employees actions and behaviors in a real time situation.</p>
<p>The secret researcher can be hired to help companies recognize quality services and employees. It is important for a company to know who is providing excellent service to their customers. </p>
<p>Companies hire a secret researcher to evaluate guest service in many types of businesses. Retail shops and restaurants can improve the quality and response time of their service. Hotels retain the services of shoppers to measure the guest satisfaction and customer experience to increase occupancy rates and guest loyalty. Each shopper program is custom tailored to each service, shop or company. </p>
<p>The shopper results give you a look into a normal customer experience and satisfaction. Professionalism, customer follow up, sales techniques and other skills are examined during the shop. Having detailed feedback about positive and negative aspects of customer service allows companies to grow and retain loyal customers.</p>
<p>Customer service is the number one priority of businesses and should be to staff members who answer phones, deal with customers and suppliers in any way. Customers who are not satisfied with your service will often not complain to your staff. They simply quit using your services. </p>
<p>Typically a persons desire to please others motivates their actions. Knowing they are being monitored, anonymously or otherwise, staff members perform honestly and courteously. If they know they are being evaluated, they have a need to perform better. The rewards for these actions are job security, desire to please their superiors and peers and acceptance. </p>
<p>Hiring a secret researcher to monitor customer service allows many businesses to improve staff behavior, response times and profitability. Having great service is the crucial to success in any business.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-olathe-66061-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Olathe RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=528" title="How Researchers Improve Customer Service">How Researchers Improve Customer Service</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/How_Researchers_Improve_Customer_Service.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Should You Have An HOA]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Should_You_Have_An_HOA.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Choosing the best, most convenient and comfortable neighborhood to relocate your family to is an important undertaking of large proportions. There are many questions you may need to consider when searching out the right neighborhood. Questions that have a direct impact on the quality of life that your new potential neighborhood will bring should you choose to live there. </p>
<p>These questions can be thoroughly answered by speaking with the local homeowner association management personnel. Ready to guide you through your personal neighborhood screening process, homeowner association management is available to clue you in on some very specific issues regarding the upkeep and restrictions of the home and neighborhood you are looking to move into.</p>
<p>These questions need to be examined before you buy, not stumbled into after the mortgage has been signed. For instance, when is it okay to rent a large dumpster and keep it on your property? Does your neighborhood allow boats, RVs and such to be parked in driveways? What about tractor trailers? Are their any parks, recreation centers or public swimming pools that are maintained and managed by the homeowner association management ? </p>
<p>Many neighborhoods require that homeowners pay yearly dues to the homeowner association. What specifically are they paying for? In many communities it is the association, rather than the city itself, that insures proper snow removal after a blizzard. Much of the yearly dues to the association will be spent on snow removal equipment and care of the equipment, as well as financial compensation to those individuals who actually do the work clearing the snow and ice, spreading sand and salt, and insuring that the neighborhood roads are passable and safe for residents during the frosty winter months. <br /></p>
<p>There is also the issue of keeping neighborhood parks, community land areas and ditches mowed, hedged, and looking good. It is often the homeowner association management that takes responsibility for planning the garden spots, the medians that have flowerbeds planted in them, new trees being planted, parks being kept clean and free of trash, vagrants, and spray paint as well as upkeep and maintenance of playground equipment. You certainly want to know who will be responsible for taking care to maintain the swing set and jungle gym that your young children will soon be playing on.&nbsp; </p>
<p>Purchasing a home in a community with an association actually insures continuity and uniformity will be displayed in the neighborhood. They may restrict certain colors or types of additions to your home. If you want to build an ad on that is shaped like a pirates tower, then you may not be able to be so creative in a neighborhood with a community association. </p>
<p>Perhaps the entire neighborhood is one of those festive holiday wonderlands and every year at Christmas time, you are required to decorate your home like the others. Does this give you a sense of community? Or does this stifle your creativity? What if you do not celebrate Christmas? Will you still be required to decorate? And how do you feel about this? </p>
<p>You are essentially paying the homeowner association management extra money each month just so you can abide by their rules and guidelines. It is wise to make certain that you fully understand what is required of you, what the neighborhood gets in return for committing to an association and how the entire experience will create the lifestyle and community that you want to be a part of. </p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-olathe-66061-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Olathe Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=507" title="Should You Have An HOA">Should You Have An HOA</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Should_You_Have_An_HOA.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Take Your Self Storage Outdoors]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Take_Your_Self_Storage_Outdoors.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Many people have garages overflowing with stuff. They cannot find their garden tools hidden among all the sports equipment and old furniture. They seem to accumulate junk. When they run out of room, they begin searching for more space. Instead of moving to a larger home why not consider renting one of those outdoor mini self storage rooms? </p>
<p>These outdoor mini self storage spaces are designed for keeping things outside when not in use. Bicycles, garden tools, lawn mowers, chain saws and other sports equipment. The space is great for organizing your garden and lawn tools for easy access. These mini self storage sheds make good workshops for carpentry or crafts. How about a meditation room where you can relax with a good book? You can even use the space as a playhouse for your kids. </p>
<p>First you need to determine what you will be using the space for. For moving large equipment in and out, you need to plan on double doors. For a workshop or playhouse, windows and ventilation should be considered. Determine the type of exterior you want. Do you want it to coordinate with your home by adding vinyl siding or paint to match? What size will you need? Be sure to take into consideration future purchases. Say you have a walk behind mower now but plan on purchasing a riding mower next year. Mini self storage should be built to accommodate any new purchases. Of course, this does not mean making the shed three times the size you currently need. You might end up filling it with junk instead of the necessary things. </p>
<p>Determine where you will locate the shed. For convenience, say for the garden, locate it near the area where the items will most likely be used. It should be on level ground with good drainage. You do not want water to drain into the shed and ruin your stuff. Mini self storage structures can be placed on a foundation if they are to be a permanent building. Other options are to place them on skids for ease of moving. </p>
<p>Another thing to think about is how you are going to organize the space. Trying to find your planting pots under a pile of deflated swimming toys, bags of fertilizer and that annoying gadget that you have no idea what it is used for can make you grit your teeth in frustration. Mini self storage sheds have reinforced walls for strength. This makes hanging shelves and tools easier and safer. A few tips for organizing are following.<br /></p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>�&nbsp;Hang shelves, pegboards and other containers to get you organized. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;Put shelving along the back wall for containers and small items. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;Install hooks and pegboards on opposite walls and leave an area on the floor for large containers and heavy items such as potting mix or quick mix concrete bags.</p>
<p>�&nbsp;Keep everything in groups. For example, long garden tools like your hoes or rakes should be hung on the wall together while power tools, extension cords and any gas containers should be stored on shelves in the back. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;Bicycles can be hung from hooks.</p>
<p>�&nbsp; The lawn mower or other power equipment should have free access to the door. You do not want to move everything just to get it out. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;Have a toolbox to keep all your small tools like screwdrivers, tape measure and hammers handy. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;Store twine, plant supports and stakes in containers on the shelves. Small jars with lids, old coffee cans with lids and any other container with a lid can be recycled to use as a way to keep small, loose items organized. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;An old cloth or vinyl shoe rack can be hung over the inside door to hold small hand tools, seed packets and other small stuff. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;Fertilizers, chemicals and other large bags can be kept on wood pallets in the back or in trash containers.&nbsp; </p>
<p>�&nbsp;Label everything! Put labels on containers and above pegs and hooks so everyone who uses the items can return them to their proper place. Especially label items that might be hazardous or dangerous such as weed killer or gas containers. </p>
<p>�&nbsp;It is also a good idea to keep extra trash bags and containers for new items or when you need to get rid of old stuff. </p></blockquote>
<p>Comparing the different types and styles of personal mini self storage sheds available the customer can find one that will fit their needs and match their home style. They will be able to find everything they need easily in a shed and have room for the car in the garage.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=898" title="Take Your Self Storage Outdoors">Take Your Self Storage Outdoors</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 05 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Take_Your_Self_Storage_Outdoors.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secrets To Self Storage Auctions]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secrets_To_Self_Storage_Auctions.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>Profiting from Self Storage Auctions</strong></p>
<p>Many people have lost valuable belongings they had in a storing facility. To their dismay, unable to pay the monthly rent, the items were sold. There are two types of self storage auctions held for unpaid units. The items are sold by the lot, which will be the entire contents of the unit or by the piece. These auctions are leading savvy entrepreneurs to profit. </p>
<p>Renters of these units become in default when they do not pay their rent. They are given legal notice their property will be sold at public auction if payments are not caught up. If they cannot pay, the belongings become the property of the facility. Many are falling behind on their rent due to the tightening of many budgets. Home foreclosures, high gas prices, rising food and utility costs are stretching many budgets beyond their limits. The units are abandoned when there is no money left over in the budget. </p>
<p>The contents are sold at auctions to the highest bidder who then can do as they wish with the belongings. Flea marketers and online auction sellers often buy at these store room auctions. They can then resell the valuables for a profit at consignment shops, online auctions and rummage sales.</p>
<p><strong>What Treasure Await</strong></p>
<p>Cherished possessions are often placed in these units. Antiques, furniture, family heirlooms and electronics along with bicycles, sports equipment, motorcycles and seasonal belongings all find their way into self storage auctions . </p>
<p>These units often contain and entire household of items. Sometimes great treasures can be purchased for very little cost. You might come across old jewelry or collectible coins dating from early last century. Old vintage games, books, toys, furniture, appliances, and decorations can be found in these auctions. </p>
<p>Clothing, either used or brand new with the tags still attached is often found in these units. You can resell them at consignment shops or online. The clothing can be sold as scrap fabric for crafters or simply remove trims and buttons and resell them. You might even accumulate enough stuff to open your own second hand store. </p>
<p><strong>Going Once, Going Twice, Sold!</strong></p>
<p>The self storage auctions usually go fast. The auctions are open to the general public. The lock is cut off at the time of the auction. The bidder arrives a few minutes early, are allowed to view the items from the door, and they place a bid on what they can see. Some of the things will not be viewable, so the bid is part guessing and part instinct. The bidding is over within 30 minutes of the auction. </p>
<p>Part of the fun of self storage auctions is the treasure hunt. You could find wonderful treasures or lots of stuff only good enough for the dumpster. If you stay at it long enough and are savvy enough you can make a lot of money and fill your home with treasures.<br />You might be surprised at the business equipment you will find. Restaurants store extra cooking supplies and serving dishes in the units. Automotive repair shops store tools and parts. Carpenters and plumbers store tools and supplies. If the business goes bankrupt, moves on or for some other reason they do not claim their belongings, they are sold at self storage auctions .</p>
<p>You should be consistent if you are planning on earning money with the self storage auctions game. You will need to attend many auctions to have a good chance of bidding on several units. The more units you bid on the better your chances of finding treasures.</p>
<p>You should have a solid plan for marketing any purchasing before bidding. The Internet is one of the best ways to sell higher value stuff. Analyze things thoroughly before reselling. A 500 dollar glass vase can easily be mistaken for 5 dollar junk. Classified ads in newspapers are good for furniture, appliances and other large household goods. Another idea is to start a rental business with the used appliances and electronics. Instead of having a garage sale or selling at flea markets, sell the items in bulk</p>
<p>Self storage auctions are a super way to buy used stuff for pennies on the dollar and resell for a profit. They are a great resource for selling at online auctions, flea markets and garage sales. Or who knows, maybe even your own resale shop!</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-67th-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=899" title="Secrets To Self Storage Auctions">Secrets To Self Storage Auctions</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 05 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secrets_To_Self_Storage_Auctions.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopping FAQs]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_FAQs.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>If you are newly working for mystery shopping services , or if you would like to work for one, there are probably many questions that you have about this job industry. Working at this sort of job can be confusing at first, and certainly overwhelming, but it does not have to be if you have the right information about the things you need to know.</p>
<p>Many people who decide to work for mystery shopping services wonder when and what method they will be paid by. The answer to this is simply that mystery shopping services are different, and therefore have their own rules of conduct for this type of thing. Many times, you will get paid a base pay by the hour, sometimes including time spent in travel. In addition to this you might be reimbursed for items you are required to purchase on the job. You could possibly be issues a specific credit card or gift card in order to make purchases on the job. Mostly, if you end up using your own money to make a purchase on any given job, if you do not get reimbursed, you will merely get paid more by the hour. It is simply a matter of which company you work for. You should definitely make sure you know what the rule for this are before you sign with any mystery shopping services or go on any job for them.</p>
<p>Another thing people worry about or question initially is whether they will have time for this type of job. Those who have a full time job but also wish to do this on the side wonder if they will have a strict schedule or a set amount of required hours. The answer to this is no. Almost always, you will set your own schedule, going on jobs that are most likely in the area you live, at a time that is convenient to you. The amount of hours you work is entirely up to you as well. Most companies allow you to choose however many or few jobs you think you can handle in a given time span. The important thing to remember about this is that you should never chose more jobs than you think you can handle. If you ever have to skip a job, or worse, if you forget a job, you probably will not be asked to go on a job again, and obviously this is not something impressive for your resume.</p>
<p>One main question that people newly working for mystery shopping services have is if they can bring someone with them when they are on the job. This of course also depends on the specific company you are employed by, but many times this is a perfectly permissible thing to do, as long as the person or people you are accompanied by know the importance of your task and that they must not give away what you are trying to accomplish. Children sometimes are a bit more complicated, as they could tend to blurt something out unintentionally. The easiest thing to do in this case is to simply ask your supervisor what you should do. And remember for yourself that you will be on a serious job, not simply a leisurely day out with a friend, and you will have work to do and things to notice and take into account. You will not want someone there who will distract you from getting the job done properly.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-67th-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=527" title="Secret Shopping FAQs">Secret Shopping FAQs</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 05 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_FAQs.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Choosing The Right Property Management Firm]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Choosing_The_Right_Property_Management_Firm.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Managing real estate is complex and can be very specialized. There are different types of property and each should have a specific type of management. For the local shopping center and other commercial establishments, commercial property managers should be experienced in net leases, percentage rents and other areas that would not pertain to, say, an apartment complex.</p>
<p>The expertise of the managers should match the type of investment. Is it an office, an industrial building or a strip center? What types of problems does the building currently have? Is it vacancy problems, marketing or problems with maintenance? Ask the managers you interview the types of property they have experience in, how long they have managed other properties and the results of their management. Ask to see samples of their financial management in the past. Find out what types of marketing they specialize in. Is it print, new media, newsletters, advertisements, videos or other types?</p>
<p>The commercial property managers who deal with retail management will be experienced in different types of establishments. When interviewing for management companies, the investor should ask what types of centers they are currently managing and if they have satisfied clients. Do they manage a strip mall, a neighborhood or community center or regional shopping centers? Shopping center management requires specific skills in accounting and the programs that handle common area maintenance or CAM, leasing tenants and billing. </p>
<p>The office building will require different skills from the retail establishment. Commercial property managers need talent in administration, leasing and engineering. The manager will need to know if an office building meets ADA requirements for restrooms and elevators and what those requirements are. </p>
<p>There are other types of property that will require different types of skills. Industrial, mobile home parks, self storage facilities, motels and other types of properties require knowledge in each specific market and the laws that apply to it. The company hired should have experience in leases of different types, tenant notices and disclosures. </p>
<p>Look for a manager and its company that is accredited. This accreditation sets them apart as having met higher standards that other firms in the same community have not met. They should be experienced and flexible, having knowledge about accounting, architecture, law, marketing, maintenance, leasing, sales and appraisal. A good manager who deals with clients, tenants and the investor in a straightforward way is necessary.</p>
<p>Commercial property managers should have a positive reputation among the business community. They should be viewed as professional and honest.� They should provide services depending on the client needs. They should provide financial services such as record keeping and reporting as well as developing and monitoring budgets. The manager and its company will provide maintenance programs and implement marketing strategies.� They will be responsible for rent collection and evictions and negotiating leases.</p>
<p>The manager will be attentive to their tenants and respond to their needs and concerns quickly. They are responsible for purchasing equipment, supplies and contracting with outside services as needed. They will also manage insurance needs and comply with any laws and regulations.� And enforce all ordinances relating to fire, health and safety codes.</p>
<p>Commercial property managers play an important role in any investors business. Considering all the factors such as the type of property, the size of the property, location, and how difficult the property is to manage, an investor needs to research and negotiate with several managers before signing any contract. The right manager provides expertise, professionalism, solid financial future and honesty.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-67th-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=506" title="Choosing The Right Property Management Firm">Choosing The Right Property Management Firm</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 05 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Choosing_The_Right_Property_Management_Firm.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Free Mystery Shopping, Look Out For Scams!]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Free_Mystery_Shopping%2C_Look_Out_For_Scams%21.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Legitimate quality assurance work does exist and many job seekers look to mystery assignments as a secondary source of income. However, it is very difficult to build a stable and steady income from this line of work. In addition to lucking out on living in a populated city where there are many shopping opportunities, one has to battle the needy pocketbook of Uncle Sam when it comes to taxing the independent contractor. </p>
<p>While State and Federal tax make it nearly impossible to find a free secret shopper assignment, the quality assurance industry is not to blame because these jobs do exist.</p>
<p><strong>Death and Taxes</strong></p>
<p>You cannot outsmart the�tax laws�by finding free secret shopper work that offers compensation in the form of a free meal or free merchandise rather than an outright monetary commission for your service. While small exchanges for your services seem trivial individually, they do add up and you are require to claim them on your yearly income, these items are taxable. It is unlawful to omit the exchange of property or service from your tax statement. </p>
<p>Taking a chance or thinking that you will not be�found out or they will not bother to audit you is like playing Russian Roulette. Think about this, these free secret shopper coporations file income tax reports and all those small meals and merchandise values add up to big dollars. That business is reporting where all those dollars went. The IRS is likely to notice if there are discrepancies between what the business reports versus your personal income statement. </p>
<p><strong>Scams and Fraud</strong></p>
<p>Do not be naive enough to think it is impossible for you to become a victim of free secret shopper scams. Unfortunately, there are people out there who promise independent wealth, so long as you buy their secret book to success or register to receive their list of shopping assignments. </p>
<p>As a rule, we are all taught to believe that there is no such thing as a free ride. That is exactly the mindset that con artists use to lure in their victims. A shopper should never pay to join a group of shoppers or pay a set-up fee to receive a list of job opportunities. </p>
<p>The quality assurance industry is perhaps the only one that goes against this rule - there is such a thing as a free ride. The truth is, it should cost you nothing to become a shopper. </p>
<p><strong>Separate the Wheat From the Chaff</strong></p>
<p>Even if you are wearing your super-commonsensical goggles, you can still find yourself being lured into false free secret shopper ads that promise gold at the end of the rainbow. The most legitimate shopper jobs are usually mixed into search engine results alongside the fraudulent ads. It is up to a very resourceful and skeptical shopper to determine which ads are for real.</p>
<p>Would you apply for a part time job at a local restaurant and expect to pay an application fee just to be considered for employment? Of course not, that is absurd! Likewise, why would you pay a quality assurance company to consider your service. After all, it is them who are in need of filling these positions in order to fulfill contracted work for their clients. It only makes sense that they openly accept applicants without requiring moneys.</p>
<p>Some legitimate shopping jobs do require the shopper to purchase a product, for later reimbursement. These jobs should be accepted with caution, and only after looking into consumer reports and business bureau records.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=980" title="Free Mystery Shopping, Look Out For Scams!">Free Mystery Shopping, Look Out For Scams!</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Free_Mystery_Shopping%2C_Look_Out_For_Scams%21.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[For Rent or For Sale - Organize Your Real Estate]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/For_Rent_or_For_Sale_-_Organize_Your_Real_Estate.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>By using a real estate management system of your choice, you will have access to tools necessary to help you keep and maintain your investments. This tool can be used whether you have a handful of properties or more properties than you can remember. For those people who have not hired a company to do the everyday managing of their properties, this tool has many benefits you should consider.</p>
<p>How impressive would it be to be able to let prospects take a look at the property before the ever walk in the door and even have a way to have a potential buyer be able to have a virtual tour? Of course that would be a great advantage to have. Real estate management system solutions are a way to make this idea come to life. With this system, you can take pictures of the property and completely map out how that property actually looks. When potential buyers are not able to physically view the property, this is a great alternative and widens the reach of your market. </p>
<p>Another real estate management system solution is to use it for dynamic property and rental listings. The great thing about this part of the system is to be able to list an unlimited amount of properties. Most times you do not have the option or the capacity on a website in order to post an infinite amount of listings. Who has that many properties for sale at the same time? Well these systems can be to list properties you want to sell or just to be able to keep track of them. This part of the tool gives you the great ability to post your properties online instantly through a copy and past administration portal on your website. Each listing on your website has its own detailed list and information about that property.</p>
<p>With you being the administrator of your real estate management system tools and solutions you can set your site up to where people can come on and post their property to sell. You can set up their listing to be updated and send them a message letting them know when someone is interested in their property. Also you can send out a newsletter to all members that sign in to know about particular properties having an open house or their purchasing costs have changed. </p>
<p>There are many other tools that you can use on a real estate management system . You can set it up to where customers can come online and use a mortgage calculator to see how much one of your listings will cost them. You are able to keep track of all of your agents and how they are doing in terms of selling property. Of course if you do not have agents, this part of the system would not benefit you. There are many companies out there that have agents that work for them and this system allows you to give them praise for their accomplishments.</p>
<p>Every system is different and could contain many aspects. Do not think that there is only one way to manage your properties. Find the one that fits into your budget and the one that gives you the best value. Even though you might find a system that has the best cost value, will it give you all the tools necessary for you to be organized and well prepared for this ever changing market? It is always a task to find the right system for your big or small business. Take your time and invest well. </p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=979" title="For Rent or For Sale - Organize Your Real Estate">For Rent or For Sale - Organize Your Real Estate</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/For_Rent_or_For_Sale_-_Organize_Your_Real_Estate.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Secret Shopping Pitfalls To Avoid]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Pitfalls_To_Avoid.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Mystery shopper assignments should be taken seriously. They bring important marketing data for the client. There are several mistakes to avoid if you are a shopper. </p>
<p>One mistake is turning in poor reports. To the company you are working for, your report are their eyes and ears. The report should be top quality. Do not use poor grammar and run on or incomplete sentences. Check the spelling on everything before sending it in. Do use good synonyms and descriptive words. Vary the beginning of each sentence, instead of he said or I found every time. </p>
<p>Check specific guidelines for each assignment. Know what you should focus on. A mystery shopper should use descriptions but do not be too emotional. Report the facts. Instead of My waitress was terrible you should say something more detailed like, The service was terrible because the waitress spilled my drink on me and did not apologize. The first sentence is emotional, without giving any detail while the second leaves out your emotions and reports what happened.</p>
<p>Give a detailed summary of the event but do not give step by step descriptions. This is boring and not what the client asked for. Try to summarize in one or two sentences. Read your report out loud to yourself before sending it in. If it does not sound good to you, there is a good chance the company will not like it either.</p>
<p>Another mistake a mystery shopper can make is to miss deadlines and give up reaching specific targets. Your job is to do a quality job on time. Often clients need research on a specific employee, especially in financial services jobs. If you as the shopper give up on reaching that employee and do not notify the company of your difficulty, you will not get paid. And you probably will not work for them again. The same is true of missing deadlines. The company hired you to do the job and expects it to be done at the scheduled time.&nbsp; </p>
<p>When given an assignment complete it by the dates scheduled and turn in paperwork promptly. If you have a problem completing the assignment contact your scheduler as soon as possible. </p>
<p>The mystery shopper makes a mistake when they fail to follow the guidelines for each shop. The shop form asks for specific information about a certain shop. These market research forms are designed to gather information to help the business reach their goals. You fail to follow the guidelines set up ruins that research study. You will not get paid for incorrect information. </p>
<p>Newbies and beginners are not the only ones who make these mistakes. Experienced shoppers become complacent doing regular shop assignments. They can easily use the wrong forms thinking they know the routine and missing the updates to the guides. Review all paperwork and shop assignment details every time, even when the assignment seems routine. </p>
<p>These obvious mistakes are easy to avoid. Being a mystery shopper is a serious job. You are responsible for gathering marketing data for business to help them improve. Be professional in all your assignments and take your work seriously. Learn to make good reports by following a few rules in grammar and spelling. Finish assignments when they are scheduled and use the correct guidelines for each shop. Remember that excellent work will get your noticed for more assignments. </p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=526" title="Secret Shopping Pitfalls To Avoid">Secret Shopping Pitfalls To Avoid</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Secret_Shopping_Pitfalls_To_Avoid.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[How To Get Your Security Deposit Back]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/How_To_Get_Your_Security_Deposit_Back.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>We tenants often put all the responsibility of our apartments maintenance on the property owner or manager. Very seldom do we think about what we could be doing to maintain a safe and clean apartment. Well, until it is time to recover our security deposit, that is.</p>
<p>But chances are, if the only interest you have taken in the state of your apartments maintenance is when you are moving out and waiting for your deposit back, you are too late to undo the years of neglect. </p>
<p>More than just getting back your deposit, living in a clean and well kept apartment will improve your quality of living and take away some stress. Here are a few tips on what you can contribute, as a tenant to maintaining a safe, clean and neat apartment.</p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>�&nbsp;<strong>Report Problems Right Away -</strong>&nbsp;If you see a stain in the ceiling indicating water damage you should contact the property owner or manager immediately. The last thing either of you wants is a collapsing roof or serious damage to the property or your belongings. Structural hazards are mandated to be fixed by most city and state governments and a good property owner will want to keep his investment safe. The big areas to keep an eye on are the foundation, roof, pipes and plumbing and wiring.</p>
<p>�&nbsp;<strong>Getting Ready For Winter -</strong>&nbsp;If you live in a climate where the temperature reaches freezing or below, then make certain any garden hoses are removed and unplugged so that water does not drip and accumulate, causing a burst pipe. If that were to happen, it would not only cause apartments maintenance issues for the owner, but it would be incredibly inconvenient for you.</p>
<p>�&nbsp;<strong>Personal and Courteous Decoration</strong>&nbsp;- While you do not want to live in a sterile, white room with nothing on the walls and no furniture, there is a line that you should not cross when you are renting an apartment. Some things to keep in mind are that every nail hole will have to be patched. Dents in the floor from a grand piano will have to be fixed. Starches and stains from pets will have to be repaired and cleaned. That can make a lot of work for you, but if the apartments maintenance crew has to do it, they are not likely to return your deposit.</p>
<p>�&nbsp;<strong>Follow the Rules -</strong>&nbsp;Keep a copy of your lease in your filing cabinet or with other important papers. Make sure to have read all the details about apartments maintenance issues you are responsible for. These may include things like changing light bulbs, maintaining clean surfaces, and sometimes even mowing the lawn if that service is not provided by a management crew. Your lease will also likely outline and limit what types of decoration you may add to the home. You will not likely be allowed to change the appearance of the outside structure, change the paint color, put in hardscaping or landscaping to the lawn, perform mechanical work in the garage or driveway or run a home business from the premises. These rules are all designed to preserve the investors property. It is also important to abide by pet restrictions.</p></blockquote>
<p>The stigma attached to a proprietor and his lessee may be the brunt of many jokes and the plot to a few horror stories, but there is no reason you cannot make a friend of your management team. You will find life more enjoyable when you have a good relationship with your management team. </p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-merriam-66203-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Merriam RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=505" title="How To Get Your Security Deposit Back">How To Get Your Security Deposit Back</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/How_To_Get_Your_Security_Deposit_Back.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Self Storage FAQs]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Self_Storage_FAQs.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>You have finally decided to clear the clutter from your basement so you can have that dream home theater room. You have stored years worth of furniture, paper files and crafts as well as many off season decorations. Many of the items you want to keep for future use. But where do you put everything? Your garage is already full and closets are overrun. The logical solution is to place everything in one of those self storage rentals you pass every day. </p>
<p>Before you begin packing all your stuff into the first available unit, get the answers to some of the most common questions about self storage rentals first. Lets address the more popular ones. </p>
<p><strong>1. What sizes are available?</strong> Most self storage rentals will have a large variety of sizes available. The smallest ones are great for storing boxes and clothing while the largest can hold a house full of furniture or even your boat. </p>
<p><strong>2. What is the cost of the unit?</strong> Self storage rentals are rented by the month and depend on the size and location of the unit. Climate controlled units are normally higher, up to 50 percent more than unheated unit. Payments can be made in a variety of ways, according to the contract. You can pay monthly, quarterly or semi annually or annually, by check, cash, credit card or automatic payment. </p>
<p><strong>3. Will the management pro rate rent?</strong> If you rent during the middle of the month or discontinue your lease before a full month is ended find out if the rent will be adjusted accordingly. </p>
<p><strong>4. Is there a deposit required? Are there any other fees?</strong> Some facilities charge a deposit as well as the first and last months rent. Some facilities charge fees for locks, security services or a set up fee to add you to their system.</p>
<p><strong>5. How long is the lease? Is there a minimum or maximum amount of time&nbsp;you can rent a unit?</strong> What if&nbsp;you need it for a long period of time while&nbsp;you are&nbsp;out of the country? Most facilities require a one month rental, simply because of the rentals are based on month to month agreements. If you decide to terminate your lease, the management will want a prior notice and this time will vary among the facilities. It can be anywhere from 10 days up to a months notice.&nbsp; </p>
<p><strong>6. Is insurance provided? Will&nbsp;your valuables be covered from fire, damages and theft?</strong> Many facilities do not provide insurance for your items. Ask what, if any kind of coverage is provided and the costs and covered items. If they do not offer insurance or it is not enough to cover your belongings, check with your current insurance agent.&nbsp; Homeowners or renters insurance often can be purchased to cover storing your items. </p>
<p><strong>7. Can&nbsp;you change to a different size if&nbsp;your needs change?</strong> Most facilities allow you to move up or down in size. </p>
<p><strong>8. Can&nbsp;you store anything? What is not allowed?</strong> Many facilities do not allow food or perishables, flammables or explosives, and chemicals and hazardous wastes.&nbsp; Some facilities offer self storage rentals specifically designed for wine keeping. These units are climate controlled to the right temperature for wine keeping. </p>
<p><strong>9. Are units dry? Climate controlled? Are pallets available?</strong> Some facilities offer free wooden pallets. These pallets allow air to circulate around items stored. Climate controlled units are allow the temperature and humidity to be controlled to store sensitive items like leather furniture, electronics and musical equipment. </p>
<p><strong>10. What type of security do the facilities have?</strong> Should&nbsp;you provide&nbsp;your own lock? You can provide your own lock at many facilities or purchase a lock from the facility. Some facilities provide security cameras, round the clock surveillance and other high tech security options.</p>
<p>These are just a few of the many questions you should ask when thinking of storing any of your belongings in self storage rentals . The advances made in today facilities make them a secure, safe and good option when you need to clear out space in your home. <br /><br /><a href="http://kansas-lenexa-66219-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lenexa RV Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.selfstorageblog.com/detail.asp?ID=897" title="Self Storage FAQs">Self Storage FAQs</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Self_Storage_FAQs.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Capitalism at Its Best]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Capitalism_at_Its_Best.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>They say that love is what makes the world go around. On the other hand, they also say that money is what makes the world go around. So who is right? </p>
<p>While those two things tend to be mutually exclusive, the love of money is what turns out to be the root of all evil, as they say. In any case, with all this going around, it is safe to say that commerce is what keeps the market going. And if commerce is what drives the economy, then small businesses are at the heart of the driving force. If it were not for the entrepreneur, free enterprise may cease to exist. </p>
<p><strong>The beauty of Free Enterprise</strong></p>
<p>The fact that if you do not like a product, you can create a better one and people can choose which one they prefer to buy is one of the best things about free enterprise. Likewise, if you do not like the customer service you received from a business, you can choose to place your complaint with a higher authority or business bureau. And you certainly do not have to shop there again.</p>
<p><strong>The Consumer</strong></p>
<p>Competition in the business world is a marvelous factor for the consumer. Because businesses both large and small have to compete for your dollar, they better their product, lower their prices or improve their service. It is a win - win situation for you.</p>
<p>You may not realize all the behind the scenes work that goes into delivering you a well packaged shelf product. If small business is at the heart of commerce, then the consumer is altogether responsible for pumping the blood to that heart.</p>
<p><strong>The Business</strong></p>
<p>Customer service is a concept that has been around for a few decades now. Businesses have wised up and realized that customer retention and new customer gain are what bring in the revenue. But just avoiding bad customer service is not enough to maintain and build a customer base. A business has to get into the mind of their customer.</p>
<p>That is where a secret shopping center steps in. Another result of the free market, a secret shopping center is a business that has developed an expert opinion of what defines good and bad customer service. Their services will help a business owner step out of his office and into the store as the customer. </p>
<p><strong>Improving the Business to Serve the Consumer</strong></p>
<p>A secret shopping center is a niche industry all its own. However, within the industry are even more specialized shopping services that focus on one or a few service industries. A specialized secret shopping center is far more beneficial to a business in that field and ultimately better for the consumer as well. </p>
<p>For example, an owner of a hotel would do much better hiring a quality assurance service with knowledge of the hospitality industry rather than a service whose client base is largely retail stores. </p>
<p>Selecting the right secret shopping center is as important as hiring the staff to manage your store. The best advice is to make a list of what you hope to accomplish with a shopping service and why you a shopping service is a good idea for your business. As you shop around for a shopping service, make sure to be clear about those goals. You will know when you have found the right secret shopping center because they will customize their service to meet your goals and offer suggestions to make your quality assurance program more effective.</p>
<p>No matter how specialized your product or service is, there is a customer service and quality control business out there for you. In the end, having a better product means having happier customers. Offering excellent service will win the hearts of your customers and they will come back and share their experience with a few friends. Bettering your business not only builds an outstanding reputation for your business name, but serves your community and benefits each and every one of your customers. </p>
<p>And so the world, or in this case, the economy really does go around.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-lenexa-66219-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lenexa Car Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=977" title="Capitalism at Its Best">Capitalism at Its Best</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Capitalism_at_Its_Best.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Maintaining Your Residential Property]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Maintaining_Your_Residential_Property.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Residential real estate is not only a big investment, but also a big responsibility. Owning and maintaining multi family properties can be especially time consuming and a bigger job than one may at first realize. Murphy was right. Indeed, anything that can break will inevitably break, and at the most inopportune times. Property management maintenance is a task that never ends. The maintenance issues are multiplied by the number of families that live there on the property. As such, there are many different areas concerning property management maintenance that one will need to consider before purchasing a residential property of any kind. </p>
<p>Realize that structures will fail, at some point. It is inevitable. Walls will crumble, door jambs will go crooked, cracks will appear and pipes will burst. Over time, building erosion will occur. Part of property management maintenance is ensuring that you have your bases covered here. Whether it is hanging drywall, repairing a crumbling fireplace, re-hanging a door or removing wood rot, these structural issues will need to be dealt with in a timely manner to ensure that your property values will continue to rise. Take care of these big things as they occur and do less work in the long run. Avoiding the issues only compounds the trouble that you will be faced with later on down the road. </p>
<p>Consideration must be given to all aspects of property management maintenance , from heating and air conditioning units to installing and repairing fences, gates, balconies, decks and patios. Stuff breaks and needs to be fixed. No matter what type of residential property you own, you will become all too familiar with these issues. When one tenant moves out and leaves your unit in shambles, you are the one who is responsible for cleaning up and making the unit ready for the next occupant. </p>
<p>Painting, cleaning floors, replacing dirty, worn carpets and minor repairs such as hardware on cabinets, repairing broken drawers, closet rods, towel racks and other necessary make ready issues will be expected of you. Insuring that the appliances work, from the stove to the garbage disposal is all part and parcel of the responsibilities of ownership when it comes to property management maintenance . Plumbing issues must be considered, as well as pest control measures. Insects and rodents are sly critters, and they will spread throughout your property like wildfire if left to their own devices. Cleanliness of the overall unit is an important factor here. Plants such as mint and marigolds are effective natural insect repellents. If you must use chemicals to control insects, use the most environmentally friendly pesticides that you can find. Ongoing attention to this matter will keep your property bug free and your tenants happy.&nbsp; </p>
<p>It is helpful that anyone who is in the position to carry out property management maintenance has a general working knowledge how to fix things. At the very least you should be eager and ready to learn what needs to be done. When an ice maker in someones refrigerator goes on the fritz, they will no doubt be calling you in a hurry. Just as you do not like your tenants being late on their rent, so do your tenants dislike you taking your own sweet time to come and make repairs. Timely service begets timely tenants. It takes two to make this partnership work effectively. </p>
<p>What if you are about as mechanically inclined as a pile of sticks? Then you have to pay to play. Many companies specialize in the very areas that you will be inclined to need. There are landscaping companies, electrical services, heating and air conditioning services, construction companies and even make ready and minor repair services to fulfill your needs. They do not come cheap, though. If you are willing to trade your money for their time and thereby make less profit in the long term, you can be just as successful in property management maintenance . The choice is yours.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-lenexa-66219-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lenexa Furniture Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.totalqualityassuranceservices.com/detail.asp?ID=978" title="Maintaining Your Residential Property">Maintaining Your Residential Property</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Maintaining_Your_Residential_Property.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Mystery Shopping Jobs - A New Frontier]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mystery_Shopping_Jobs_-_A_New_Frontier.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>A growing trend among marketing research is website mystery shopping. Can you remember the last time you requested information online by filling out a contact form? You probably searched the sitemap for a phone number first and then settled for filling out the form, right? Many times a company may not even list a phone number and only offer online correspondence with clients or customers. </p>
<p>While you still may be hesitant to fill out the online query forms, for fear of spam, this has become a standard method of online consumer service. And you may be relieved to know that online businesses are taking a proactive approach to diffusing the nasty taste spam and phishing scams have left in the mouths of online consumers. </p>
<p>This new form of serving customers has created the need for a new mystery shopping niche. If a business is going to rely on Internet communication, then they would be amiss not to check the quality of that service. A business owner or operator should start by checking the following regarding the handling of request forms:</p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>�&nbsp;Timeliness of response<br />�&nbsp;Accuracy, or response from appropriate department<br />�&nbsp;Helpfulness<br />�&nbsp;Friendliness</p></blockquote>
<p>An online company should also take quality control measures to ensure products are delivered on time, accurately and in working condition.</p>
<p>A business with all or a large amount of revenue generating from online sales may hire a web consultant or mystery shopping service to determine the user-friendliness of navigating their website. Some of the questions an online business should ask are:</p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>�&nbsp;Was the customer able to locate what they were looking for quickly<br />�&nbsp;Did the website display other like items for the customer to compare<br />�&nbsp;How easy was it to find the shipping info<br />�&nbsp;Did the customer receive what they ordered quickly <br />�&nbsp;Was the order shipped accurately<br />�&nbsp;Was the product delivered without damage</p></blockquote>
<p>Business owners will quickly realize the cost of asking for customer opinions is much less than hiring a website consultant, which is creating this new niche of mystery shopping jobs. So, if you find yourself shopping online very often you may consider registering with a few reputable mystery shopping providers who offer website quality control services to their clients. </p>
<p>If you are not interested in working part time for a mystery shopping service, but you still find yourself filling out those entry forms, registrations forms, service orders or query forms here are a few simple tips to follow to avoid filling out the forms that are phishing for information from you in order to flood you with spam, or worse.</p>
<p>For starters, you should feel safe inquiring to a help desk for a company with whom you already have an account. By the time you are asking for help on a product you already have, that company has most likely proven themselves trustworthy with your personal contact information.</p>
<p>If you are shopping for a new product, make certain the online source you choose to purchase from does not have unresolved complaints with business bureaus or negative consumer reports. Look for a product guarantee and also read the security statement before giving any payment information.</p>
<p>An easy, but often overlooked way to avoid receiving solicitation after you register or join a website is to pay attention to the registration process. Many times a company may have a small box to check if you do not want to receive promotional offers from them in the future. Even trickier, they may have a box that is automatically checked in order to receive promotional offers, in which case, the registrant would have to unselect that box. </p>
<p>Additionally, the site you are registering with may have a box to check or unselect consenting to allow them to share your information with their affiliates.</p>
<p>Companies rely on the that fact that the you are in a hurry or do not read the fine print. Taking a few moments to notice what you have agreed to can help you avoid the headache of filtering through spam in your inbox.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-lenexa-66219-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lenexa Boat Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.secretshoppingblog.com/detail.asp?ID=525" title="Mystery Shopping Jobs - A New Frontier">Mystery Shopping Jobs - A New Frontier</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Mystery_Shopping_Jobs_-_A_New_Frontier.html</guid>
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	<title><![CDATA[Tenant and Landlord Courtesies]]></title>
	<link>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Tenant_and_Landlord_Courtesies.html</link>
	<description><![CDATA[<p>Being a condo manager is a very respectable job. Although the tenant and the condo manager are a notorious duo, most managers are not out to make life hard for you and vice a versa, most tenants are not out to trash the place.</p>
<p>There is a short list of duties that you can perform in order to be successful at being a condo manager . However, one thing that you can not be taught is drive and determination. You have to come up with that value all on your own. </p>
<p>Usually this job does not have a high success rate and has a high turnover rate. Being in charge of a complex could be a very daunting task to have when you are hired in as the underdog. Not all people are qualified to do the job. </p>
<p>Some of just the small things that you have to do are</p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>�&nbsp;manage the tenants that currently live there <br />�&nbsp;fill vacancies <br />�&nbsp;take care of maintaining the building </p></blockquote>
<p>The reason that most people move into condos is because they can own the place without having to deal with most of the everyday issues. They can send payments into their bank and realize that they are putting a dent in the overall amount they owe. They also realize that they do not have to mow the grass, in some condo complexes, or deal with calling a plumber if their pipes are leaking. There is someone over the whole property that is in charge of that. </p>
<p>There are a few things that you can do to be a great tenant, such as</p><blockquote dir="ltr" style="MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px">
<p>�&nbsp;Keep the unit clean to prevent insects or rodents<br />�&nbsp;Report any maintenance problem promptly<br />�&nbsp;Do not smoke in the unit<br />�&nbsp;Do not have pets in the home, or limit it to 1 or 2 small animals<br />�&nbsp;Make monthly payments on time<br />�&nbsp;Report suspicious behavior or violations of neighbors anonymously to the manager</p></blockquote>
<p>Taking care of the overall land and property of the complex is a huge undertaking. The person that invested their money into making this complex happen wants to ensure that they can make a profit if they sell it. He wants to ensure that his buildings are in tip top shape. The condo manager can either assign someone to perform the every day tasks or they can do them their selves. Depending on the property, they might not be able to. </p>
<p>They might have to deal with tenant disagreements or trying to figure out how to fill some vacancies in their complex. Sometimes the condo manager is in charge of advertising and getting the word out that they have a great complex and that they have reasonable prices. They could also do tenant surveys to find out what they could do to improve the everyday life of the tenants they currently have. Then they might be more inclined to give you ideas on how to make your property more profitable. </p>
<p>As a condo manager , you can buy all sorts of software that will help you keep track of tenants and the everyday life. It helps you stay organized and have everything all in one place. It will also help you to develop maybe a community newsletter, or help you advertise your complex. There are many different sources of assistance for you. The easiest thing is to find the source of help, but it is another thing deciding to take it.</p>
<p>You can do a great job if you put your mind to this type of job. It is far from easy, but if you manager your time well, it will benefit you. By not managing their time efficiently has been the end for most managers. Take care of your responsibilities and your complex will have happy tenants and you will see the bottom line grow.</p>
<p><a href="http://kansas-lenexa-66219-self-storage.storage-mart.net/" target="_blank">Lenexa Storage</a></p><br/><br/>The original article is located at: <a href="http://www.propertymanagementblog.com/detail.asp?ID=504" title="Tenant and Landlord Courtesies">Tenant and Landlord Courtesies</a>]]></description>
	<pubDate>Tue, 03 Jun 2008 02:00:00 CDT</pubDate>
	<guid>http://directory.selfstorageowner.com/news/Tenant_and_Landlord_Courtesies.html</guid>
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