Avoiding Pitfalls: What to Watch Out for in Home Improvement Retail!

Eric G shares valuable insights on ways to save money on your monthly bills in this midweek update. He emphasizes the importance of looking into property tax relief options for seniors, which could lead to significant savings. As the retail home goods and construction industries face challenges, many longstanding companies are shutting down, prompting Eric to advise caution when making purchases. He highlights the shifting dynamics in the economy, including the impact of cheap Canadian lumber and changing forestry laws. Additionally, Eric encourages listeners to regularly check in with their service providers to ensure they're not overpaying and to take advantage of customer retention offers, especially as the holiday season approaches.

As the holiday season approaches, many homeowners are seeking ways to cut costs and manage their monthly expenses. Eric G delves into practical strategies for saving money, emphasizing the importance of reviewing property tax obligations, especially for seniors. He explains how various jurisdictions offer property tax relief programs for those over 65, urging listeners to explore these options to reduce their financial strain. Eric shares his personal experiences with local tax assessor challenges, detailing the frustrations that can arise when navigating the application process, and encourages listeners to reach out with their own stories to build a support network around this issue.

The discussion transitions into a broader examination of the economic landscape affecting the home improvement and retail sectors. Eric points out a troubling trend of long-established companies shutting down, attributing these closures to a combination of factors including increased competition from cheaper foreign products and the ongoing impacts of the pandemic. He highlights the significant changes occurring in Oregon's lumber industry, where local sawmills are closing as a result of new laws and market pressures. This, in turn, raises concerns about job losses and the economic viability of communities reliant on these industries.

In light of these developments, Eric stresses the importance of vigilance when making purchasing decisions. He advises listeners to be cautious about where they spend their money, particularly during this uncertain time when many retailers are facing challenges. He also recommends taking advantage of customer retention programs offered by service providers, suggesting that regular check-ins can lead to better rates or upgrades on outdated technology. This proactive approach to household management not only helps in saving money but also ensures that homeowners are equipped to handle the challenges posed by a fluctuating economy.

Takeaways:

• For homeowners over 65, check local tax relief programs that can save you money.
• Many states offer property tax relief for seniors; research local laws for assistance.
• Retailers in the home improvement sector are closing down due to economic shifts.
• It's crucial to pay with credit cards for better recourse in case of retailer issues.
• Contact your service providers annually to negotiate lower rates on your monthly bills.
• The recent economic changes are causing significant disruptions in the home goods market.

Links referenced in this episode:

• aroundthehouseonline.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Talk Media Network
• Basset Furniture
• Roda Paint
• Miller Paint
• Lowe's
• Home Depot
• Dura Supreme

To get your questions answered by Eric G give us a call in the studio at 833-239-4144 24/7 and Eric G will get back to you and answer your question and you might end up in a future episode of Around the House.

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Information given on the Around the House Show should not be considered construction or design advice for your specific project, nor is it intended to replace consulting at your home or jobsite by a building professional. The views and opinions expressed by those interviewed on the podcast are those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Around the House Show.

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