Archive for the Category »Jaimie – RV Lifestyle Expert «

Reality Check 101

24 Jan 2012        By editor

Reality Check 101

The last two weeks, I have given you some tips to sell your home.  My husband is a retired General Contractor and we have bought and sold properties together for about fifteen years. As you know, things have changed drastically in the real estate market and people need REAL help.  That’s why I am calling today’s article “Reality Check 101.”  Next week, the article will be called “Reality Check, 102!”

My purpose today is to share with you the experiences my husband and I have recently had selling our home and a rental property.

Today’s market is not “life as it was,” but I imagine it will be “life from now on…” or at least for the next five years.  Home sales have increased in the nation, but it is because people have become more realistic due to circumstances beyond their control.  Lending institutions are stricter in lending no more than the appraisal price demands, based on square footage.  The secondary housing market is definitely a buyer’s market; the seller can price and receive offers higher than the appraisal comes in based on sales in the neighborhood (“comps”), but the buyer will not be able to borrow more than the appraisal price.

In our situation, we worked with a realtor we trusted and had used several years before with a rental property.  She broke the news to us what the comps came in at—about $50,000 less than what we had paid for the house! Ouch!  Two houses in our neighborhood had been sold at rock-bottom prices, and they weren’t even foreclosures. One of the houses had been “for sale” for over a year.  The owner even took it off the market for a few months.  Her desire was to move to the coast and take advantage of the super low, short-sale price of a particular condominium right on the beach.  She decided to take a big loss on her home—and yet gain on the other end, buying the condo at such a low price. (The other neighbor was a friend of hers and also bought a condo at the beach!)  If you are investing in another property and getting “a steal,” it isn’t as hard to sell low.

The problem Workampers face,  is that they aren’t necessarily buying a new home, unless it’s an RV.  [There is an art to buying RVs for much, much less than the MSRP, but that’s for another article!]  If you are buying another home for your domicile, you are probably downsizing, so looking at the Big Picture, the bite in the seat of your pants can be assuaged by getting a great deal on the other end as a buyer.  However, we were not buying another home—only renting a site to maintain our Florida domicile.

We decided we would not start out asking as low a price for our home as the other two homes that had recently sold. Why? We just knew our home was nicer! Truly, we had replaced all our appliances, light fixtures and plumbing fixtures, and had hardwood flooring in most of the house.  We also had a sun porch that was original (not added on), plantation shutters and Corian countertops everywhere. Our house had been the “model” house in the neighborhood, so it had extra molding and other features.  We also were on the corner so we had more privacy and backed up to a pond.  Our realtor had done a great job with a photo tour on MLS and held an Open House the very first weekend.  Even though our sale price was somewhat higher than she advised, we were thrilled to get an offer at the Open House!  After countering, we arrived at a figure that was $5,000 less than our asking price.  The buyer asked for certain pieces of furniture to be included, and we agreed to most.  The price we settled on was about $15,000 more than the other two homes had sold for, so we were satisfied, although we still were losing from what we paid for the house. Fortunately, our house was paid for, so we weren’t upside down or anything.

Here comes the reality check.  Two or three weeks before closing, we find out the lending institution would not lend our buyer (a lawyer) the 80% he had asked for.  Even with 20% down!  The buyer  expected us to decrease our sales price by $14,000.  It was a real struggle, knowing he had thought it was worth the higher price and had the means to afford it—so we took a step back and didn’t panic.  Finally, after a week’s time, he agreed to split the difference 65/35%.  He paid the 65% difference.  We were fortunate he was willing and able to do that, or we could manage to accept less than we anticipated.  Had we rejected his offer, we might have had “carrying costs” (overhead until the house did sell) and maybe still end up the same conclusion, or been worse off.  In order to fulfill our dream of fulltime workamping, we had to have an attitude adjustment.

Reality checks often have to do a lot with perception and attitude.  We changed our perception by choosing to look at the big picture.  We had lived happily in the home for seven years.  The days of living in a home “for free” due to selling at an appreciated price could be gone.  We decided to look at the positive:  there were two things to make us feel better about the depreciation.  First, we had downsized seven years before when prices were at their peak and we had made over $100,000 on the sale of our prior home, which allowed us to buy our motorhome.  Then, we averaged out the monthly cost of living in the home for seven years and realized we came out ahead of what renting such a home would have cost.

The next task we had to accomplish during our month’s sabbatical from workamping was to sell an investment property we owned in Round Rock Texas.  We no longer had a purpose of owning a home in Texas (write-offs for managing the property while visiting our children living there).  Things were beginning to be a hassle, since our other investment properties were in Florida and we were being spread too thing.  The neighborhood was failing and we didn’t know if prices would continue to fall or climb back up, but we had to focus on our objective:  to enjoy the freedom of Workamping.  Rental property is an excellent investment, especially if your husband can make most repairs, but the house was getting to the age that major expenses were to be expected: appliance replacement, fogged windows, roof, a/c, etc., and we didn’t want expected “unexpected” expenses to be worried about.

Our experience with the sale of that house has, I think, some valuable lessons, but due to my rambling, I will continue with “Reality Check 102” next week!

Mary Lou Merritt

At The Workamper News Forums Site:

Please join the discussions on these hot topics!

  • A Workamper suggests, “be aware of promises not kept.” What’s your take? Join in at the Workampers Forum (Member-only).
  • If you are researching employers, start at the Workamper Experiences Forum (Member-only).
  • Post your images at the Workamper Images Forum and check out the ones already there!
  • “FOX NEWS VIDEO ON WORKAMPERS” – was it accurate?  Weigh in at the General Workamping Forum.
  • “Should we rent out our home or sell it?” Add your advice at the Full-timing Forum.
  • Solos – you might find a Workamper partner at the Solo Workamping Forum.
  • Add your modifications at the DIY, Mods & Upgrades Forum. You can upload photos too!
  • Any other ideas for “Hobbies: space and weight!”? Let’s hear them at the Workamper Interests and Hobbies Forum.

Log in (or register at) Workamper Forums

Jaimie Hall Bruzenak
www.rvlifestylexperts.com

***

Golden Opportunity

Deadline to become a GOLD LIFETIME MEMBER approaching!

You don’t want to neglect your opportunity to become a Lifetime Gold Member for a never-again offered price!

Whatever membership level and years of subscription you have already paid for will be applied to the Lifetime membership level.  $299.00 minus your paid-in-dues to become a member for life without ever having to renew!  Remember, your Lifetime membership will always be at the Gold level.

THIS IS A GREAT VALENTINES GIFT! If you remain a member for seven years (average membership time), your total dues (if the price remained constant) will be $1,386.  Perhaps you’ll be a member for EVEN LONGER.   Compare that to the $299.00 one-time offer until  February 14, 2012.

HOWEVER, saving money is far from the best reason to become a LIFETIME GOLD MEMBER!!!!  The tools and resources the GOLD members are afforded are the REAL reasons you should take advantage of this opportunity.

Do it NOW! Simply go HERE or call 800-446-5627 for more information and to take advantage of this Golden Opportunity.

February 14th is the absolute deadline!

What’s Happenin’ In the News

Michigan Recreation Passports

The Recreation Passport has replaced motor vehicle permits for entry into Michigan state parks, recreation areas and state-administered boating access fee sites. This new way to fund Michigan’s outdoor recreation opportunities also helps to preserve state forest campgrounds, trails, and historic and cultural sites in state parks, and provides park development grants to local communities.

Michigan residents can purchase the Recreation Passport ($10 for motor vehicles; $5 for motorcycles) by checking “YES” on their license plate renewal forms, or at any state park or recreation area. Nonresident motor vehicles must still display a valid nonresident Recreation Passport ($29 annual; $8 daily) to enter a Michigan state park, recreation area or state-administered boating access fee site; these can be purchased at any state park or recreation area, or through the Michigan e-Store at www.michigan.gov/estore.

To learn more about the Recreation Passport, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport or call 517.241.7275.

This Sounds Fun!  Traveland’s RV Museum 

More than a week ago, the 7,000 square foot RV Museum opened to the public. Owner Sisemore said he has been building the museum for over 25 years, and listed some of the greats:  a 1936 Alma, a 1937 Elkhart Traveler, a 1953 Fleetwood. The list goes on.  Not only those,  the red and white bus that characters Travis and Mary Jo Gornicke drove in the movie “RV” is even on display.  Jay Leno is said to have the same model!   More than 4,000 visitors have already visited the museum at 4341 Amarillo, TX at Sisemore Traveland.  To go to their website, visit www.rvmuseum.net and you can see some of the RVs from the past.

What’s In a Name?  The possibility of a Law Suit!

The name “North Carolina” was in dispute as the name of an upcoming RV show taking place at the Raleigh Convention Center, North Carolina.  After AGI obtained a Restraining Order, Apple Rock—the advertiser and promoter of the show, was forced to rename the show the NCRVDA Show which is to be held January 20 to 22, 2012.

Bisbee, AZ Trying to Eliminate Permanent RV Living

BISBEE, Ariz. — During Thursday’s meeting, members of the Bisbee Planning and Zoning Commission discussed an amendment to the city code regarding the use of RVs and travel trailers, in hopes of eliminating the use of RVs as living quarters, reports the Sierra Vista Herald.

Community Development Director John Charley proposed an ordinance that would set concise regulations on length of use, the permitting process, the use of utilities and the establishment of a permit fee, reports the Sierra Vista Herald.

The Sierra Vista Herald reports that the draft ordinance prohibits the use of an RV for permanent occupancy.

For the complete story from the Sierra Vista Herald, click here.

Tampa RV Show Sets Attendance Record

A new record of 54,000 attendees over five public days was reported today, according to the Florida RV Trade Association.  That is approximately 900 more than last year’s event.  Dealers and manufacturers reported excellent sales, which is usually a precursor to the entire RV industry nationwide.  The dates for the 2013 Florida RV Super Show is January 16-20 for the public; January 15th for the RV Industry.  For more information, visit www.frvta.org.

Florida ARVC declares “The Worst is Over”

A spokesman for ARVC said despite the economy and political situation, the worst is over as things are better than two years ago and the outlook is positive.

Attention Super Bowl Fans

The Indiana Dept. of Natural Resources reports “available, affordable and nearby” facilities at Indiana’s State Parks and State Park Inns for those coming to Indianapolis for the event.  Go to Camp.In.Gov to find out more.

That’s It for Now, Friends!

Mary Lou Merritt
marylou@workamper.com

Category: Jaimie - RV Lifestyle Expert, Other, RV Lifestyle, RV Professor, WKN Forums, WKN Info & Updates, WKN Store  Tags: ,  Comments off

So…You Want to Sell Your House?

17 Jan 2012        By editor

In last week’s IBN, I told you how my husband Grady and I sold both our primary residence and a rental property in the first week we listed it.  This week I’m going to give you some hints as to what should be done in preparation to putting your house on the market.  Keep practicing these tips for as long as it is on the market!   Please do not take these tips personal!  The intention is to help you sell your house.  Your personal preferences can be practiced when you are settled down again—whether in your RV or a new home.  For now, follow these tips to have the most success at selling your house!

First, keep in mind that buyers won’t even come inside if they don’t like the appearance of the exterior.  Prune bushes below window height; add mulch to your flower beds and consider adding a pop of color with a potted plant or annuals in season.  Don’t forget about the roof! There are companies that can “soft wash” the roof to make it look nearly new. Cut overhanging tree limbs and remove all dead wood. Curb appeal is important so make certain your path to your front door is attractive – clean and swept off.  Make sure your front door (and garage door) is washed, if not freshly painted, and consider replacing hardware or light fixtures if they are rusty looking.  If nothing else—wash the glass and make sure your light bulbs are bright enough and brush away all cobwebs!  Is your mailbox a sight for sore eyes, and are the address numbers plainly visible?

But first, before putting your house on the market, allow yourself plenty of time to get rid of stuff.  Clean out closets and even attics, basements and garages.  Get rid of needless furniture.  If you are planning on being a fulltime RVer, get used to living with less!  You won’t be able to take all those family photos with you, so go ahead and take them off the walls or off the dressers and tables.  You don’t want to distract your buyers—they need to imagine themselves living in your space!

You may be a collector or consider yourself an aficionado of something, but that doesn’t mean a prospective buyer needs to know it. Again—it could be something that they totally could not relate to. One of the most difficult things about becoming a fulltimer is deciding what to do with treasures such as collectibles.  Now is the time to take action—before you put your house on the market! Are you going to sell, give away or store your collectibles?

Most offensive are bathroom counters and showers cluttered with items.  Stick everything in a drawer or out of sight! Be especially careful about leaving medicine bottles out –hide them! You just never know who is a serious buyer or a drug addict or a nosy neighbor!  Scrub your tubs and showers and replace calking, first removing any mold. Is your toilet seat worn?  A quick, cheap replacement can add value to lookers.  How about your shower curtain or doors? Fresh and clean is what you need to be thinking!

Kitchens look bigger without mixers, blenders, food, spices and what-nots on the counters.  Use Murphy’s Oil soap on your wooden cabinets to clean them, make certain your oven, stove, refrigerator and sink is clean as well.  Lighting again is very important and even if you’ve done without much light in your kitchen, you might consider putting in a few inexpensive strip lights under the kitchen counters which will brighten everything.  We know you love your kids and grandkids, and refrigerator magnets make an easy way to show off your photos and important phone numbers and lists, but for now—take them all down.  Also remove anything you have stacked on top of your refrigerator.

Do you have a fireplace?  Even that is something that needs to be kept up—keep the hearth clean and make sure there isn’t soot and a lot of ashes.  Consider that some people have sensitive noses.

Then there are those dreaded baseboards.  It really improves the look of the rooms if they are clean. Hopefully, you have heard about Mr. Clean Magic Erasers.  They truly are magical to remove scuff marks on everything!  Check your windowsills and doors throughout the house for cleanliness.

Do you have pets? We love them too, but many people don’t.  Do whatever you have to make it smell and appear like they are not in your home.  Have your carpets cleaned and regularly use Arm & Hammer Pet Fresh—but don’t over-do using it or other spray scents or oils.  Just a light touch or buyers will wonder what you are trying to cover up!  Again, some people (like me with allergies) are sensitive to room sprays and potpourri, so less is more.

How about plants—are you an indoor plant lover? Take a look around and see how many of them look more dead than alive. Get rid of all but a few healthy ones. At the risk of offending someone, take a good look at your  “fake flowers.”   How long have you owned them?  A general rule of thumb, if they are plastic, most people consider them tacky: discard them.  Seriously.  If they are silk, be certain they are still attractive and look real or toss them also!  Too many people don’t have a clue that silk flowers can be washed!  Carefully hold them upside down at your kitchen sink and spray them with water. Give them a good shake, shake, shake and let them air dry. Do they look refreshed? Then make a judgment, or let your realtor or honest friend tell you whether they should go or stay.  Do you have plants with big leaves (real or silk)?  Wash their leaves with a damp paper towel or rag.  If the plants have become overgrown and take up too much space, give them away!

Wash your windows and make sure you adjust your blinds or curtains when the house is on the market to let in plenty of light.  Leave lights on that illuminate dark corners when you know your house is going to be shown.

All in all, develop a “less is more” attitude.  This takes time.  The sooner you start, the sooner you will realize that your home looks bigger and brighter the less stuff that is around.

If you have something that is so out of style or touch with the world, get rid of it.  For example, one time  I had dark brown carpet that was great at hiding stains, but I could not sell my house because it made the family room look too small.   What if someone wants to replace it with wood flooring or tile you ask?  That’s what I thought too, so I delayed spending the money on new carpet.  When the house didn’t sell, we finally replaced the dark carpet with light carpet and it did the trick. The room looked twice as big and we sold the house. Sometimes you do what you have to do for people that have no imagination.

Prospective buyers have to see the possibilities.  They have to imagine themselves living in your space.  Make sure your home looks as spacious as possible, and as welcome.

Next week, I will share about pricing and expectations.  It’s a reality check that we had to experience ourselves!

Mary Lou

What is Significant About Valentine’s Day  2012?

Just until Valentines Day (February 14, 2012), we are offering a GOLD LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITY to YOU!

A Lifetime Gold Club Member offer involves a two-way commitment.  It means that Workamper News is committed to you to bring you the best of the best, as you commit to us to be the best you can be.  Be sure find out more before time runs out, because this is the last time the offer will ever be priced so low!  $299 to get all the benefits of Gold membership with no more renewal worries.  It means all of the best tools and resources and connections with other Club members.  Sure, you can get a peek at the Club Workamper website.  Take a peek at the benefits offered Gold members on this public portion of the website.

Won’t you be our Valentine?

January Highlights at Workamper News

Jan 18, 2012 – Yellowstone Jobinar! Register at DNC Parks & Resorts at Yellowstone Jobinar

Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts at Yellowstone, says: Live the Adventure! Join this enthusiastic staff and make life-long friends while enjoying first-hand the amazing wonders of living in Yellowstone National Park. Our positions go from May/June through August/September. Full hookup RV sites and employee meals available. For details, please visit our Featured Employer Page at Workamper.com Attend this Jobinar to learn about these great Workamping opportunities. A Q&A time will be included too.

10 a.m. PT/11 a.m. MT/12 p.m. CT/1 p.m. ET

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/271886122

Jan 25, 2012 – Ask the RV Tax Master – George Montgomery 

For Gold Member ONLY. This online webinar will provide you with the opportunity to ask any and all questions you may have about how to manage your taxes as a Workamper. Join the RV Tax Master – George Montgomery, during this special webinar event and get your questions answered!

5 p.m. PT/6 p.m. MT/7 p.m. CT/8 p.m. ET

Visit the Ask the Experts page on the Club website to register!

Jan 30, 2012 – Workamper Campfire – January 2012

Join other Workampers and Workamper Dreamers who have questions about Workamping and would like to have them discussed around the campfire. You can submit your question and we will do our best to provide input on your question during the event.

Please submit your question when you register if you can. We will also take live questions during the Campfire event.

This event will take place at 1 p.m. PT/2 p.m. MT/3 p.m. CT/4 p.m. ET

At the Workamper News Forums–

Join the discussions on these hot topics!

  • Have you shared “What’s your favorite part of the country?” If not, join in at the Workampers Forum (Member-only).
  • If you are researching employers, start at the Workamper Experiences Forum (Member-only).
  • Post your images at the Workamper Images Forum and check out the ones already there!
  • The EEOC has ruled that a “H.S. diploma requirement- out?” for many jobs. Do you agree? Weigh in at the General Workamping Forum.
  • “Did you rent an RV before you bought your own RV?” Participate in the poll at the Full-timing Forum.
  • Solos – Let us hear from you at the Solo Workamping Forum.
  • Add your modifications at the DIY, Mods & Upgrades Forum. You can upload photos too!
  • Any other ideas for “Staying fit in an RV”? Add yours at the Workamper Interests and Hobbies Forum.

Log in (or register at) Workamper Forums

Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

www.rvlifestylexperts.com

RV Industry News You Can Use

Keep Updated on Recalls

Recall information for any make and model of RV can be found at the NHTSA Recall Database.  So that you are protected if a recall occurs, make sure that the vehicle manufacturer and the chassis manufacturer of your RV have your current contact information on file so that they can reach you in the event of a future recall.

The NHTSA auto Safety Hotlines is 888-327-4236.  They can give you information about recall history of a particular make and model vehicle.

TACO Releases 2012 Campground Directory

This Texas directory also  features a Texas Saver Card, providing  10 to 15 percent discounts at participating Texas parks.  The directory is broken up into seven sections, each representing a distinct region of Texas. An eighth section is dedicated to New Mexico, Oklahoma and Arkansas. Locator maps are provided at the beginning of each section, with numbered listings of the campgrounds for each region. Campgrounds are also alpha-indexed by city and park name. RV and camping enthusiasts can order the nearly 150-page directory online by visiting www.texascampgrounds.com. The 2012 Texas RV Travel & Camping Guide is also posted on the website in digital page-turning format. The Texas Association of Campground Operators publishes and distributes the Texas RV Travel & Camping Guide each year. For more information about the 2012 directory, call Schaeffer at 817.307.0129.

Photo Contest for RVers

Congratulations Cummins Onan! To celebrate the production of their 2 millionth RV generator, they are offering a photo contest to RVers.  Submit a photo for a chance to win an Apple iPad 2.  The contest will run through March 31st and will be put on the contest website for your friends to vote on.  The person submitting the photo that gets the most votes by the end of the contest will receive the iPad 2.  Go HERE to enter and learn the details.  go to www.rvphotocontest.com.  Good luck, Workamper News members!   Make us proud!  Let us know on Facebook that you have entered a photo so we can vote for your submission!

Workamper News Facebook 

Please “LIKE” us on our FACEBOOK PAGE and let us know how you are doing or anything of interest to other members or RVers through Workamper News’ Facebook network!

Michigan Seeks Volunteers for Summer Campground Hosts

[Source:  RV Daily Report] MICHIGAN — The Department of Natural Resources’ Parks and Recreation Division is offering free camping this summer for outdoor lovers who volunteer as campground hosts at Michigan state parks, recreation areas or state forest campgrounds. The Volunteer Campground Host Program allows individuals to camp in a state park or state forest campground at no charge in return for providing visitor assistance in the campground.

Campground hosts direct visitors to their campsites, answer questions about the park or state forest, arrange campground activities and perform light maintenance duties and other services, depending on the hosts’ talents and interests. They can be individuals or teams. Retired couples, teachers and students, as well as families, are just some of the volunteers who have enjoyed spending their time as campground hosts.

Campground hosts must be at least 18 years old, provide services five days/30 hours per week (including weekends and holidays), serve a minimum of four consecutive weeks and furnish their own camping unit, equipment and personal items.

State park hosts must attend a two-day training session the end of April, 2012 at the Ralph A. MacMullan Conference Center in Roscommon. This training is not required of state forest campground hosts.

Campground hosts are chosen by park and forest managers who may require an interview or request additional information. Selection is based on the individual’s familiarity with the state park or state forest system, his or her camping experience, special skills, availability, knowledge of the area and the needs of the specific park or forest campground.

Hosts are particularly needed during the busy camping season, which can begin as early as April in state parks in southern Michigan. Many of last year’s campground hosts will be returning this year; however, vacancies still exist at park and forest campground locations throughout Michigan.

Information and applications are available from the DNR’s website at www.michigan.gov/dnrvisitorcenters. Those interested in being a campground host at a state park should apply directly to the park of their choice.

For more information on campground host positions in state parks and recreation areas, contact Pam Ames at 517.467.7401; for state forest campgrounds, please contact Ada Takacs at 989.275.5151, ext. 2049.

National Forest Wanderings Newsletter Celebrates 5th Anniversary

[source:  RV Daily Report]  ARIZONA–For five years, the National Forest Wanderings newsletter has provided information to campers about national forests and grasslands and their developed campgrounds in the United States of America. Fred and Suzi Dow, publishers of ForestCamping.com, look forward to another year of giving the public free-of-charge insight to all that national forests and grasslands have to offer.

Published on the last Wednesday of the month, the newsletter contains up to seven brief articles on ranging topics such as winter camping tips, notable campgrounds, previews of special events coming up in national forests, and the re-introduction of some species to a forest or grassland. There are also tips and heads-up to help the novice and experienced campers enjoy their time in national forests and grasslands across the country.

That’s it for now, Folks!  Check back at the first of next week for a new post!

Mary Lou

Category: Editor, Jaimie - RV Lifestyle Expert, RV Lifestyle, RV Professor, WKN Info & Updates  Tags:  Comments off

Exchange Your Lawn for a Life

09 Jan 2012        By editor

December was a sabbatical from Workamper News so that my husband, Grady, and I could give away and sell most of our treasures aka stuff.  I never considered myself  a pack-rat, but this venture made me realize how many years of accumulation we did have and how much easier it would have been if we had started sooner!

Yes, I know as a staff member of Workamper News, I should have known better.  It’s a case of “don’t do what we did, do what WKN says.”  Start sooner and gradually give away or sell your furniture/furnishings and treasures.  Don’t expect there to be too much your grown children will want and don’t make assumptions that your house will take a long time to sell.  To our amazement, our house in Tallahassee sold the first week it was put on the market (who knew?) which was a blessing yet contributed to our stress.  Three weeks was not nearly enough time, even though we had dispensed with a lot of clothes and non-essential items before  our trial run began nearly a year ago. I guess we didn’t realize the true depth of our closets, drawers and attic say nothing of the heart-strings still attached.  Why we had lived nearly a year without all those treasures: what was the problem now!!!

Everyone wants to know “how we came out.”  Yes, we sold our house for less than the purchase price but we choose to focus on the positive.  We lived in that house for seven years so we choose to look at it as if we had rented it for about four hundred dollars a month less than what the rental market would have demanded.  (That even includes the new appliances and fixtures we had purchased and taxes).  As for the future—no longer will we have the expense of utilities, taxes, insurance, maintenance, pest control, security system, and lawn care!

Speaking of lawn care and why the title of this article is “Exchange Your Lawn for a Life,” we had another experience many  RVers must face if you still own a residence or rental house in suburbia.  We have had a rental house in Round Rock (just north of Austin) Texas for about six years.  Some of the years we had family living in it and other times renters.  With the terrible drought this past year, the lawn and landscaping–which at one time had been quite nice– completely died.  Without going into the particulars, and despite the best of leases which include “landscape must be maintained in good condition, etc.” (say nothing about assuming family members will take care of property the way you would), there are those that are not going to lend a hand (or hose) to Mother Nature. Never did we consider that lawn care “back home” or “at a rental property” would turn out to be one of the biggest issues while we were Workamping!

So let this be a lesson to those of you who are hitting the road and have property that needs maintenance while you are away.  It can be an expensive mistake to assume someone is taking care of your property—or belongings—or whatever.  Don’t make assumptions!

When we went to Round Rock Texas on December 18th (after just three weeks of dispensing with our belongings in Tallahassee FL), we were so exhausted we weren’t sure what we were going to do about the house there. It had always been a great rental, but it was a strain as we kept Florida as our domicile and have two other rental properties in Florida.  The lawn fiasco made us decide to sell the Texas house and diminish our stress.  After putting several days of elbow grease and touch-ups, say nothing of a yard clean-up, we put the house on the market with a realtor.  I was due back at work on January 3rd.  Again, we made the assumption it would take several months to sell.  Wrong! We had three buyers within the first 24 hours and God willing, the property will close on January 13th.

Yes, it was an exhausting holiday season for us, but a surprising one.  Next week I will share more about our experiences, including tips on selling your house.

In the meantime, we are sleeping better at night and excited to have exchanged our lawn for a life!

Mary Lou Merritt

Discounts at Pilot/Flying J for Good Sam Members—

The Good Sam Club is offering members an exclusive money-saving benefit with the launch of the Pilot Flying J RV Plus Card, according to a press release.

Beginning in 2012, Good Sam Club members can apply for the discount card which will allow them to save on each gallon of gasoline and diesel fuel purchased; 10 cents per gallon on bulk propane purchased, and 50% on holding tank dump station charges at all applicable Pilot Flying J locations across the United States.

Not a Good Sam member?  PLEASE, become one from our website.

Feds to Aggressively Monitor RV Dealership Advertising in 2012

RVDA reported January 2, 2012, that “Feds to ‘aggressively monitor’ RV dealership advertising in 2012.” The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has stated it plans to more vigorously prosecute deceptive dealership advertising this year while it reviews what, if any, additional regulations are needed.  “The Truth in Lending Act (TILA) and its implementing regulation, called Regulation Z, require that certain information be disclosed to consumers so they can compare credit offerings and shop for the best terms,” said Brett Richardson, director of legal and regulatory affairs. “Previously, advertisers could distort the true cost of the credit by publicizing only the most attractive credit or lease terms in order to get customers into the dealership.”

For example, an RV advertisement might have read, “1968 fifth wheel — only $75 per month.” But the consumer couldn’t determine whether it was a good deal without knowing the down payment, number of payments, annual percentage rate, and whether the transaction was a credit sale or a lease. TILA requires that advertisements tell the whole story.

New GPS for RV Use

“Magellan introduces new GPS for RV Use” a Press Release in PC Magazine reported January 6, 2012. It is called the RoadMate RV9145 which retails for $329.99, offers a 7-inch screen for RVers and campers.  The RV9145 packs U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico maps. It also features Good Sam Trailer Life RV Parks & Campground Directory.

For the outdoor recreation enthusiasts, “Crittermap Software announced that their Android GPS App. BackCountry Navigator, has been used by over 300,000 outdoor enthusiasts.  The app runs on both Android phones and tablets, providing hikers, hunters, and other adventuresome users with the chance to preload topographical and aerial maps, and to use them in the field along with paths and waypoints. BackCountry uses the Android GPS, which is built into the device and uses satellites, so no signal from cell towers is needed for users to know their location. This makes the application especially popular with those who wander outside urban areas into forests, wilderness areas, and other places where coverage is spotty at best.  Users can then see their position on maps that they have previously downloaded, and record waypoints, notes, and records of their track.  Especially popular are the BLM boundary maps for 12 western states, which allow hunters, hikers, and rock collectors to visualize the boundaries between public and private land.

Gas Prices Head Higher

“Gas Prices Head Higher” according to the Associated Press.  Tom Kloza, publisher and chief oil analyst at Oil Price Information Services expects pump prices will average between $3.75 and $4.25 a gallon this year; perhaps $4.00 a gallon by spring.

Alameda California RV and Sports Show This Week

The 24th annual Manufacturers RV and Sports Show  at Alameda, CA County Fairgrounds opened January 6, 2012 and runs through January 16th.  “For the first time this year visitors will be able to test ride or see a demonstration of an electric motorcycle as well as see hundreds of RVs and accessories, new and used, and negotiate directly with dealers.”

RV Enthusiasts Numbers Revealed

RVDA reports  “Including those who rent RVs, there are an estimated 30 million RV enthusiasts in the United States Approximately 9 million households own RVs. Combined with the RV rental market, it is estimated that RVs are a $15.75 billion a year industry.”

Some RV Manufacturer Notable Numbers

The top RV Manufacturer Retail Market Shares for 2010 were: 

Class A: Winnebago, Tiffin, Fleetwood, Thor, Forest River

Class C: Thor, Winnebago, Coachmen, Forest River, Fleetwood

Fifth Wheels:  Thor, Forest River, Jayco, Palomino, Coachmen

Travel  Trailers:  Thor, Forest River, Jayco, Coachmen, KZ

[Note:  Forest River ceased operations January 2011]

Texas Rebound in 2012

Texas Campground operators, hurt by the state’s hot, dry summer, are anticipating a rebound this season because of “winter Texans,” those out-of-state residents who migrate to the warmer parts of the Lone Star State to avoid the coldest weeks back home.

“Many of our affiliates are reporting much higher bookings for the winter season than they experienced last year,” said Brian Schaeffer, executive director and CEO of the Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO).

According to a report in the American-Statesmen, Austin, this summer’s drought hurt many RV parks and campgrounds, particularly those located on lakes or rivers.

Bryan Kastleman, managing partner at Hill Country RV Resort in New Braunfels, said his bookings are up because of more than just winter Texans. He said the surge in the San Antonio economy is creating a need for workers to find temporary places to stay.

Additionally, RV parks that have park models are attractive to temporary workers.

Ken Butschek, who owns La Hacienda RV Resort near Lake Travis in Austin, said his park models are attracting winter Texans who don’t want to drive their RVs over wintery roads.

What’s Up in the Next Few Weeks at Workamper News?

January 10, 2012      Writing Resumes That Rock!

Workamping expert Jaimie Hall Bruzenak will be hosting a webinar on how you can make your resume more effective. Don’t give an employer an excuse to set your resume aside! You’ll not only see examples of regular and Awesome Applicant resumes but learn WHY they work so you can make yours the best it can be.

6-7:30 p.m. CT

Webinar – participate from your computer!

Cost:  $9.95 with access to the recording in case you miss the live event

Here is some more information.  Then,  Click on RV Lifestyles- Jaimie Hall Bruzenak for details and to sign up.

January 11, 2012               GOLD member Roundtable

5 pm PT/  6 pm MT/ 7 pm CT/ 8 pm ET

Register ahead of time on the Club website to participate in this live event where you can find out what other like-minded RVers/Workampers are doing and contribute your own thoughts and ask questions.

January  17, 2012              Dreaminar:  Purchasing an RV

A webinar to assist the Dreamer (or any Workamper)  who wants to learn about purchasing an RV will take place on January 17th at:

1 pm PT/ 2 pm MT/ 3 pm CT/ 4 pm ET

Sam Lewis, an RV salesman at Camping World in Little Rock, Arkansas, will be online to share with you the questions you should ask before heading to the RV sales lot.  His experience will help Workampers choose the right RV.

Ready to register?

January 18, 2012               Jobinar:  DNC Parks & Resorts at Yellowstone  

Imagine living in Yellowstone National Park for a season—May/June through August/September with full hookup RV sites and employee meals available.

To register for this Jobinar, go HERE.

The webinar will be approximately an hour long, from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. CST.  Be ready with your questions!

At the Workamper News Forums Site–

Join the discussions on these hot topics!

  • “Quartzsite 2012? Anyone going to be there?” Let’s plan for a meet-up at the Workampers Forum (Member-only).
  • If you are researching employers, start at the Workamper Experiences Forum (Member-only).
  • Post your images at the Workamper Images Forum and check out the ones already there!
  • Share your “Happy New Year!” wishes at the General Workamping Forum.
  • Any advice for keeping your “Fresh water holding tank?” from freezing? Join in at the Full-timing Forum.
  • Solos – Let us hear from you at the Solo Workamping Forum.
  • Add your modifications at the DIY, Mods & Upgrades Forum. You can upload photos too!
  • Get a “Free eBook, Dance of the Winnebagos?” and others. Find out how at the Workamper Interests and Hobbies Forum.

Log in (or register at) Workamper Forums

Jaimie Hall Bruzenak
www.rvlifestylexperts.com

At The Workamper News Store

TWO NEW SPECIALS released by the Editor at the  WKN Store for January–

1.  The Complete Book of Boondock Rving—a book for those who like to escape crowded campgrounds in North America, written by Bill and Jan Moeller. “Boondocking” aka “dry camping” is camping without hookups.  Whether you are planning to spend an occasional overnight in a parking lot or an extended stay in the wilderness, you will learn how to equip your rig, find great campsites, manage and conserve electricity and water while camping in complete RV comfort.

Go directly here to purchase or learn more about this book.

2.  Live Your Road Trip Dream – Travel for a year for the cost of staying home.  This is an updated version including revised budgeting and technology sections; helpful web sites; “roadschooling” your children, and working on the road.  Use the step-by-step guide on planning the trip you always wanted and even learn how to enjoy your traveling companion on a 24/7 basis! Get a glimpse as to what life might really be like and what discoveries you will make along the way.

Purchase for less this month!

Category: Jaimie - RV Lifestyle Expert, Other, RV Lifestyle, WKN Forums, WKN Info & Updates, WKN Store  Tags: , , , , , , , ,  Comments off

Workampers Q&A

21 Nov 2011        By editor

I have taken many of the questions of  Workampers or Dreamers from our Workamper News Facebook page to present to you with answers.  I hope this information will be helpful to you!

Q: Is there a way to access the old Hotlines. I can only look at today’s hotline.

A: You can view the last 7 days of Hotline ads when you login at www.workamper.com and go to the Hotline page. This is a benefit of a WorkamperPlus or above membership. There is no archive of Hotline ads beyond the last 7 days. You can create your own archive by making a folder within your personal email inbox and putting your daily Hotline email in there. Then use the search option within your email program to maneuver through your archive if you’re looking for something specific.

Q: We want to find a job for my husband as a Workamper but haven’t seen anything yet.  I am disabled and can’t work.  Any ideas?

A: There are many couples out there Workamping where only one of the couple work. Look for any positions that would hire a single. The majority of the ‘help wanted’ advertising can be found through the Hotline and in Workamper News magazine (which Plus members can get in the mail and/or view online).

Q: Can you tell me about how much on average a person makes a month Workamping? It would be both my husband and I Workamping. Just trying to figure this out to see how much we can spend on health insurance for us and then how much we have for other expenses.

A: Michelle, we recommend visiting the WKN Forums website It is totally free to register and use. This is a topic often discussed there. Also, if/when you decide to join Workamper News, you will have access to ‘help wanted’ listings submitted to us by employers. We use $ symbols at the end of the ad text to denote what type of compensation they offer. You can search through the Hotline ads or online issues of our magazine for $$ or $$$ if you are looking only for jobs that offer some wages/salary or all hours paid wages.

Q: Where can we buy a copy of a past magazine?

A: We sell back issues!  You can buy some of them online from our Workamper Store Tab “Back Issues” or call us at (501) 362-2637.

Q: I am having trouble logging in to the Forums.  Can you help?

A: I’m sorry you are having trouble with the login. Hundreds of folks use the Forums site successfully, but I understand the login can tricky. The login is case sensitive, so users will need to keep that in mind when typing in the login info. Also, if a user is on their home computer, there is a box that can be checked to ‘automatically log me in each visit’ – then you won’t have to login each time you come to the site.

Q: How can I make Workamper News a friend on Facebook?

A: Technically, you can’t make a ‘page’ a ‘friend’. You can “Like” a page and then the new posts from that page will appear in your News Feed. So click on the Like button up near the top to the right of Workamper News, Inc. Thanks for viewing our Facebook page!

Q: I have not received my magazine in two months.  Why?

A:  Sorry to hear that. It could be for a number of reasons – often it is because we do not have an updated mailing address, a membership has expired, or a membership renewal was submitted with a Green (no mail) instead of regular Plus, or the postal person was not able to deliver the magazine but did not return it to us, or if a magazine was delivered to a location where it is then sorted and people pick up their mail, someone else may have gone home with it.  To update your mail address (or email address), go to our website, then click on the Index Tab “Log Out & Settings.”

Get Your Questions Answered

If you would like to know what it’s like to be a Workamper, have specific questions about your rig or the lifestyle – the folks on this site can give you great perspective. Register and create a username today!  The Workamper Forums are free for you to post your questions or read answers about many topics of interest.

Jaimie Hall Bruzenak monitors our Forums and suggests you take a look at the following topics and provide input:

  • Where are your “Winter Jobs?” Add yours at the Workampers Forum (Member-only).
  • If you are researching employers, start at the Workamper Experiences Forum (Member-only).
  • Post your images at the Workamper Images Forum and check out the ones already there!
  • What is the “The ultimate accessory for Workamper’s or Fulltimers”? Find out at the General Workamping Forum.
  • Any advice for “traveling with cats”? Join in at the Full-timing Forum.
  • Solos- check in at the Solo Workamping Forum.
  • Check out the latest projects at the DIY, Mods & Upgrades Forum. You can upload photos too!
  • Anyone into making “Homebrewed Beer, Hard Cider or Wine Brew!”? Let’s hear from you at the Workamper Interests and Hobbies Forum.

Reminder – Deadline Fast Approaching!

Have you submitted your FREE Situations Wanted Ad for the next issue?  Do it NOW because the deadline is fast approaching for the January/February 2012 issue.  At holiday time, we are all busy, so please do it now before the week ends.  All Workamper News members get up to a maximum of 30 words at no charge.  You can do it easily online, by going to:

http://www.workamper.com -> Workampers -> Put Yourself Out There -> Situation Wanted Ad.  Then, just place your ad!

Something Fun!

We were delighted to get our first Sewiepig story across our desk.  Thank you Dorri Eilbeck for writing an entertaining story, sharing your travel adventures with your adopted Sewiepig.  We invite all you other Workampers to write us a story–or even a paragraph or two (yes, we know Dorri set the bar kind of high, but she is a writer for her rescue dog (PinMin) newsletter.)  Let’s have fun.  Let that inner-child out!!  Smile! If you haven’t adopted a Sewiepig for yourself or as a gift for another RVer, you can do so HERE.

Recommendations from the Workamper News Store

“Casino Camping” is a book available at the Workamper News Store.   This book will tell you about the hundreds of casinos throughout America that are RV friendly. Some have free overnight parking, while others have an RV park. And think about the buffets! They offer upscale facilities at reasonable rates.  Includes contact info, descriptions, discounts, etc.  Written by Jane Kenny, it is in its’ Fifth Edition.

Are you on the road during the holidays and want to shop or park at a Wal-Mart?  We have just the book for you to find the closest one.  The Wal-Mart Atlas is in it’s Second Edition.  It is a comprehensive guide to more than 4,100 Wal-Mart stores, Supercenters and Sam’s Club stores in the United States. State maps show you where the stores are located and whether gas or diesel fuel is available. Information on each store provided. Written by Roundabout Publications.  $24.95 with FREE SHIPPING!

C A L E N D A R

Workamper Campfire – Nov 2011 

Nov 22, 2011 at  1 p.m. PT/2 p.m. MT/3 p.m. CT/4 p.m. ET

Join other Workampers and Workamper Dreamers who have questions about Workamping and would like to have them discussed around the campfire.  You can submit your question and we will do our best to provide input on your question during the event.

Please submit your question when you register if you can.  We will also take live questions during the Campfire event.

Thanksgiving Holidays – OFFICE CLOSED –

November 24-25 – Have a wonderful holiday with family, friends or volunteering your time and talents!

Tuesday, November 29th -

NOT THE SAME “Why Every Workamper Should Operate Their Own Business”

I know many of you have read our “Small Business” statements and blown them off as hype!

I also know that many of you have not even asked yourself if you SHOULD consider operating a small business—for one reason—because you couldn’t imagine a business you could operate from your RV.

I am asking you, to P L E A S E  –  ASK YOURSELF  - if you could possibly be missing out on something that really could sweeten your RV-life experience and wallets.

Please step out on that limb and at least find out why you should own and operate a small business as a Workamper – especially now that we have a NEW PROGRAM that can become your small business or additional stream of income for your existing business.

On Tuesday, November 29th –Workamper News President, Steve Anderson, will present the NEW  informational launch of what he is calling:

“Workamper Concierge”

You have a choice of two different webinar times with hopefully one of them meeting your schedule:

Tuesday, November 29th, 2011 at 11 a.m. Central Time.  You can easily register at:

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/628882282

Tuesday, November 29th, 2011 at 7 p.m. Central Time. You can easily register at:

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/854906626

Ask the Experts –  Gold Members Only

Mail Forwarding Service Expert Larry Sroufe of “Your Best Address” will be our guest expert! This online webinar will provide you with the opportunity to ask any and all questions you may have like, “How do I keep up with my mail?” and ”How do I register my vehicles, if I no longer have a home residence?”

Nov. 30, 2011 at  1 p.m. PT/  2 p.m. MT/  3 p.m. CT/  4 p.m. ET

Register today on the Ask the Experts page from the Club website!


Category: Jaimie - RV Lifestyle Expert, Other, RV Lifestyle, WKN Forums, WKN Info & Updates, WKN Store  Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,  Comments off
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