Friday, June 29, 2012

A Brief History Of Real Estate Development In Nassau County

Steeped in centuries of history, Nassau County plays a theatrical role as the gorgeous, homey hamlet set amongst the backdrop of hectic New York City. Nassau joins the adjacent Suffolk County, forming the majority of Long Island the contiguous United States' largest island. It perhaps has been the most important, with Nassau County properties occupying a prominent place in the New York landscape for centuries.

An original battleground for the intellectual battles between Loyalist and Patriot parties during the American Revolution, Nassau was once a starkly divided set of villages. Founded by Dutchmen nearly 400 years ago (named for William of Nassau, Prince of Oranje), Long Island lays claim as one of the first European metropolitan areas in North America. The Battle of Long Island took place along the eastern shore by far the largest battle between British and American forces. Weathered relics can be found all over the now-burgeoning city even Theodore Roosevelt's Sagamore Hill home is among the Long Island real estate. Now Sagamore is home to the Theodore Roosevelt Museum and the thrilling 23-room Victorian made of mahogany, cypress and black walnut is preserved as a National Historic Site.

Nassau County real estate isn't just amongst history often it is the history.

Growth As America's Ideal Suburb

Opened May 4, 1905, Belmont Park plays home to the Belmont Stakes the third and final leg of horse racing's Triple Crown. Legendary thoroughbred such as Secretariat, War Admiral, Man o' War and Seattle Slew have graced and wowed the New York crowds at the park.

During the 20th century, Nassau County homes for sale saw unprecedented growth as New York's boroughs became crowded. The 20s and 30s saw the sleepy farms transformed almost overnight into prototypical American suburbs. Tired of the matchbox living in the city, most migrants fled for the suburban niceties found only in Nassau County real estate's quaint surroundings. The communities of East Meadow, Wantagh, Massapequa and Franklin Square grew tremendously. These communities still feature large Italian, Jewish and Irish American populations.

Living Today

Nassau County properties offer some of the best living accommodations in the New York City area today. One of the richest areas in the nation, the median household income of ,579 is an exceedingly high number considering the population of 1,350,000. Additionally, the county's residents enjoy living in one of the safest spots in the United States. In 2005, Forbes ranked Nassau County as the safest region in the U.S., with the lowest crime rate.

Nassau County real estate is available at a wide range of price points and styles including: Victorians, condos, single living, and multiple family arrangements. With quick access to the overflowing amenities of Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens, there's always something new to discover in the world's premier city.

Renowned for it's sophisticated culture within such a cluttered backdrop, the region has maintained it's quaint sensibilities despite increasing urbanization. Complete with a heart from yesteryear, expect Nassau County to continue into the new millennium as the prototype for integrating urbane living with the classical, northeasterner lifestyle.

Importance Of Moving Company In Every Aspect Of Our Life

Every year hundreds and thousands of men and women relocate from one place to another, more specifically from one state to other. The moving reason starts form the family to finance to weather and health. But for each of the above case, the potential movers have to employ moving companies. If it is in Maryland they would hire local movers Maryland and if the residents are from Virginia, Alexandria movers come in to the play.

So the residents are likely to select a local moving companies and it is more likely that they would take references from their near friends and the relatives. Choosing nearby Alexandria movers is too challenging job, but when you find that in a quick time, nearly all of your issues will be solved. As local movers Maryland movers are contacted, a salesman from that business visits your premises to create a moving estimate. This estimate that is made, takes into account numerous aspects that is made up of separate amount for your packaging vans for your moving needs and in addition an insurance coverage with that of the moving purpose. The consultant can also make an inquiry concerning the moving location on the basis of which she can make the estimate. In addition to the distance another essential component to consider is the quantity of stairs and the distance from the house to the van. The price estimation is also depends on that. In case of mobility of items locally, an important aspect that is considered will be the quantity of time which is spent in moving. The driving force should be offered the shortest route, so that this expense is reduced.

When all the aspects are taken good care of, packaging is initiated. Local movers Maryland are hired on the basis of contract, and packaging companies generally an important part of the deal. They acquire proper care of all your belongings, and also the finest care is implemented in order that no or minimal damage is induced to the home objects. You'll find so many local relocating companies, who carry good care of the insurance coverage plan facilities, to ensure that in situation of any harm, a specific quantity can be recovered.

One more important thing to check is that the storage system of the moving companies. After having packed all the belongings, you must check the safety and security status where your belongings are kept. Why this is advisable? Storage is the place where your household chores can get damaged despite solid packing. In case of interstate moving say from MD to VA, storage is essential for the Alexandria and Maryland local movers as they try to shift many residents and households at a time. This in fact reduces their costs.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Goa Real Estate: Emerging Realty Destination

Goa is situated on the west coast of India and is famous for its millions of years old beaches, world heritage architectures and worship places i.e. both temples and churches. The capital of Goa is Panaji and is highly distinct from all other cities of India. Goa is the hottest and the most popular tourist destination for its pristine beaches and international lifestyle.

The city of Goa splashes a terrific blend of old and new, verdant hill forests, shiny sand, swaying coconut trees, infrastructural marvels perfectly coupled with hospitable and charming people. This region known as the smallest Indian city does not only lure holidayers but property investors also. The investment avenues are evergreen in this city as all the above luxuries can be enjoyed throughout the year. Goa seems to be a perfect investment destination for many as relaxed and quality living is its primary offering. You can enjoy your retirement life amidst its greenery and sparkling environs by investing in Goa property now before prices are spiraled high. You can invest in any kind of property like penthouses, flats, guest houses, rest houses, hotels or other kinds of residential and commercial properties.

With the growing awareness of the tourism potential in Goa and the entry of various international events, the property rates have already grown high. The real estate in Goa is blooming and rates are expected to grow further. The temperature of this city is congenial and suits all kinds of visitors from across the world. It has a global appeal that makes it a favorite with foreigners and continues to invite investments from international corporate entities. Being known best for holidaying, businesses in hospitality are at the top in Goa. In the commercial sector, tourism companies and hotel industry show great interests in Goa real estate. Steep rise in commercial realty rates has also been predicted by the real estate experts.

Moreover, properties in Goa are extremely eye-catching that keep the watcher hooked to them. It is known for its architecture and cultural places like age-old churches and temples. People from far flung areas come to visit these pristine marvels, making this city a precious jewel for the country. Such attractions make it one of the most sought after realty destinations of India. It would always prove beneficial to invest in property in Goa as it will inevitably grow as a holiday destination and a tourist spot.
The future scope of Goa real estate is unlimited and so, realtors and property agents advise investments in the current scenario as it would soon witness sky rocketing prices. This investment would reap high profits in future and so, various leading property dealers like DLF, Parsvnath, Acron, Araujo Home Makers, Sanatan Financers, etc. are entering in Goa in the quest for investment avenues. Some of the upcoming Real Estate Projects in the city are listed below:

1. DLF is all set to come up with a glitzy shopping mall in Panaji's Patto in Goa.

2. Prominent real estate developer, Parsvnath Builders and many others are constructing projects with the aim of transforming scenic locales of Goa into huge housing segments featuring health clubs, tennis courts, shopping malls, hospitals, schools, etc.

3. Apartments on the beach or one with a river view or an exclusive bungalow featuring top-notch facilities, etc. will be the new face of the beach city, Goa. Shopping arcades featuring top brands are also mushrooming in the city.

According to real estate consultants, residential property in Goa asks for high rentals along with good resale value. The construction boom has swept the entire city while it emerges as the upcoming realty destination.

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

How Can Secured Personal Loans Work

Secured personal loans are occasionally known as homeowner loans. Secured personal loans will also be referred to as second mortgages. What exactly are secured personal loans, and just how will they work? With secured personal loans, the cash borrowed in the lender is borrowed against some kind of collateral. Usually with secured personal loans, this collateral is really a house or property the borrower owns. Secured personal loans, then, are in fact safer with regards to the bank or lender's reassurance about recouping the cash. Secured personal loans aren't necessarily as secure for that borrower.

Due to this, it is advisable to ascertain if there are more routes open to the borrower before she or he decides to pursue secured personal loans. Short term loans, and sometime, even a low interest rate charge cards might be safer for that borrower than secured personal loans, due to the fact the borrower's home won't be foreclosed upon when it comes to the borrowed funds starting default.

Secured personal loans are widely popular for any number of reasons. One of many reasons secured personal loans are widely chosen among borrowers happens because secured personal loans are usually open to individuals with past credit problems. Short term loans, or loans in which the bank doesn't have guarantee of repayment apart from a signature in the borrower, must be not agreed to anyone who has were built with a past record of issues with credit. However, secured personal loans, since they're normally borrowed against someone's house, tend to be more acceptable and safe for banks and lenders to provide to anyone, including individuals with poor credit.

Obviously, people who don't own a house will most likely 't be entitled to secured personal loans, either. It's possible that some secured personal loans might use other styles of collateral like a vehicle. Normally, though, secured personal loans require ownership of some form of house for the customer. Therefore, people who rent or lease a house or apartment will often 't be entitled to secured personal loans. Since they're not entitled to secured personal loans, it is crucial those renting or leasing homes keep their credit rating as positive as you possibly can, in the event of future desires or must take a loan.

Trying to get secured personal loans is usually super easy nowadays of technology. Secured personal loans are usually available through applications at banks, in addition to applications online. Many people may even make an application for secured personal loans over the telephone, which has turned into a common occurrence. It's helpful, when trying to get secured personal loans, to possess all your financial information ready and available. Applications for secured personal loans includes questions regarding your past and current employment, your taxes, your present account balances and debts, etc. Having one of these information ready before you apply for secured personal loans can help the whole process move along as soon as possible.

Secured personal loans are a well known selection for borrowers nowadays, and when you check first to ensure those are the right selection for you, they might be valuable for your personal pursuits.

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Real-Estate investing: Investing in REITs

Real-estate may provide investors with a high-yield and low risk investment combination for greater total return potential to a diversified long-term portfolio.

For most people, investing in real estate begins and ends with the purchase of a home and any prospects of investing in office buildings, hotels, and shopping centers seems nearly impossible. However, these investments are more attainable than you may think thanks to real estate investment trusts (REITs).

A REITs sole purpose is to invest in groups of professionally managed properties such as office buildings, apartment complexes, medical complexes, industrial buildings, and so on. REIT performance has varied over the years, but the total annual return for the past 10 years has been 10.5%.

REITs trade like close-end mutual funds. There are a fixed number of shares outstanding and they offer those shares via a price per share model similar to close-end mutual funds. However, unlike close-end mutual funds, REITs gauge performance under different metrics. Rather than measuring performance by net asset value, REITs use a tool called funds from operations. Fund from operations is defined as net income plus depreciations and amortization, excluding gains or losses from debt restructurings and sales of properties. A REITs growth benchmark is a byproduct of funds of operations growth.

Appeal of REITs

REITs offer an array of advantages to investors, including:

Diversification - Investors turn to REITs and their good dividend paying potential for diversification against future market downturns because REITs are uncorrelated with equity markets. Built-in management Each REIT and its property investments are overseen with their own management team, saving investors tremendous time from researching each property's management team. Tax advantages REITs don't pay federal corporate income taxes and are required by law to distribute at least 90% of their annual taxable income as dividends, eliminating double taxation of income. Investors can also have a portion of REIT dividend income be treated as a return of capital. Inflation protection Since landlords are inclined to raise rents more quickly when inflation picks up, equity REITs which obtain most of their income from rents can be an inflation hedge. Weighing out some risks

Just like all investments, REITs carry with them specific risks that you should consider and discuss with your Isakov Planning Group Financial Advisor before adding them to your portfolio. Above all is the lack of industry diversification because all REIT investments include only property investments. Some REITs may be even less diversified when they choose to specialize in specific property developments such as medical buildings, or golf courses. Because of their focus, a REIT investment should be used as part of a diversified portfolio to provide greater diversification.

You should also be aware that REITs are subject to changes in the value of their underlying portfolios, and their prices may fluctuate with changes in their real estate holdings.

What Buyers Must Know Concerning Lead In Hoboken Homes For Sale

Because you're a first time buyer of Hoboken homes for sale, you possibly are not too familiar concerning lead, particularly the rules about it that are related to homeownership. Lead can be awfully precarious. How much someone gets exposed may lead to one of the following:

- Brain damage as well as negative effects to someone's nervous system

- Trouble with behavior

- Slowed growth

- Headaches

- Complications throughout pregnancy

- High blood pressure

- Digestive problems

- Pain in the joints and muscles

Any person is prone to the threats of lead; however, those who are very much in danger are children, most especially very young kids who put almost anything in their little mouths, like, chips of paint that may possibly have lead.

There are various means wherein someone may get exposed to lead. One of the usual ways is through lead based paint. Due to the threat, the government banned the utilization of such paints in structures in the year 1978, but earlier that year, numerous residential houses use lead paint. To look after homebuyers, regulations were submitted that oblige sellers to present lead disclosures for houses that were constructed prior to 1978.

In the rules regarding lead paint disclosures, sellers of properties are required to disclose in writing all the known particulars that is concerned with lead in the residential structure. If there are investigations done, the outcomes must be disclosed. Real estate agents or sellers are supposed to also give buyers a copy of the pamphlet "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home" from the Environmental Protection Agency or EPA.

Moreover, it is mandatory that sales agreements give home buyers a time period, maximum of 10 days, to inspect for any lead hazards in the property. Although home buyers are not commanded to look for lead, they need to be given a chance to execute such an inspection.

Intact lead-based paint, which means there's no wear, flaking, or cracking, does not cause any dangers to the health. So if you are buying a residential structure that contains lead paint, it is advisable to thoroughly watch out for the following:

- Paint that is cracking, peeling, or cheeping

- Places in the property that are at risk to deterioration that can cause chipping or exposure to underlying paint layers on fences, terraces, door frames, window sills, stair railings, and banisters

- Lead dust resulting from scraped or sanded paint

- Lead found in the soil of the home throughout the house that is caused by cracking lead-based paint on the outside of the house (this may be very unsafe for children who play outside and also in a main spot to be carried inside through shoes)

When buying a residence in Hoboken real estate, you are supposed to be familiar with the other potential sources of lead aside from lead paint:

- Lead may be discovered in water if the water pipes have lead or lead solder (lead cannot be recognized by odor or taste so see to it that you have the water examined)

- Old painted furniture or even toys

- Plants releasing lead in the sky

- Leisure pursuits using items that contain lead, such as furniture refinishing, pottery, and stained glass work

Securing A Home Loan Online With Bad Credit: What Makes It Happen

There can be no doubt that securing loans over the Internet is the most cost-effective way to do so. Not only can everything be done in the comfort of your own home, but the best deals are found there too. So, it only makes sense to apply for a home loan online with bad credit. The chances of success are highest.

That is not to say that securing mortgage approval can be guaranteed. There are still strict criteria to meet. But, since online lenders are recognized specialists in bad credit lending, the chances are still better than going through traditional mortgage providers.

So, what is the secret to getting the green light when applying for a home loan over the Internet? It is actually the same as with any other loan. It comes down to establishing that the mortgage is affordable, but doing this is reliant on three key areas.

1. Paying A Sizable Down Payment

Normally, a down payment is about 5% to 10% of the purchase price, but paying a larger sum helps in securing a mortgage. When it comes to getting a home loan online with bad credit, it is just as effective, since the overall debt is lowered too.

The reason for its effectiveness is pretty straightforward. Basically, the smaller the required mortgage, the lower the debt and, consequently, the lower the monthly repayments. A down payment reduces the size of the required mortgage, so the larger it is the lower the mortgage sum. So, mortgage approval online is easier to get.

When filling out the online application form, just enter the figure in the appropriate box before submitting to notify the online lender of the size of the down payment. Getting the home loan then comes down to a number of other aspects.

2. Status of Credit Rating

There is no getting away from the fact that a credit rating does have a minor influence on proceedings. It may not prevent an application from succeeding, but because it decides on the interest rate to be charged, it can have negative impact. When applying for a home loan online with bad credit, this is important to keep in mind.

It is well worth the effort it takes to improve your credit score, for a number of reasons. First of all, the weight of debt is lowered; secondly, the debt-to-income ratio is improved, freeing up more cash to meet repayments with; and thirdly, the mortgage provider is impressed by the financial discipline required.

However, it also requires a lot of planning, and for the applicant to take action a long time in advance if enough is to be done to help secure mortgage approval online. The best move is to take out a consolidation loan to replace the multiple debts with a more affordable single loan. When that is done, the home loan is more affordable and approval is much more likely.

3. Proving Employment Status

A third key aspect when trying to secure a home loan online with bad credit is providing confirmation of your employment status. It should be both stable and gainful. Basically, that your full-time job is safe and reliable, and that the income is large enough to cover the repayments.

It is effectively impossible to get a mortgage approval, online or otherwise, if the applicant has not got a full-time job. Even well-paid consultants on short-term contracts can find it very difficult to get approval because the mortgage can be 30 years, and lenders need know the repayments are affordable for that period.

This can take a lot of time to establish, but if your employment is full-time (not contract) and has been held for at least 6 months, your home loan application may be successful.

Monday, June 18, 2012

Exactly How Does Magicjack Work, And Why So Cheap?

How does MagicJack Work? People are asking this question along with, why so cheap? People think that this is one of those; too good to be true things, with all the features promised, caller ID, voice mail, call waiting and directory assistance to name off a few.

That's what I thought when I first heard about it. I for one am glad that I took a second look because it has been my home phone since January 2008. This device has saved me at least 96 percent of what I would have paid to my old landline service, so the answer is yes, to the question of DOES MagicJack work.

How does MagicJack Work?

There are two main differences in the way MagicJack works from other VoIP providers.
First - it plugs into your computer like a flash drive and not your modem. This makes the device totally portable and can be taken and plugged into any computer with high speed internet. The one problem with this is your computer must be running at all times to receive calls.

The Magic Jack dongle has within it a small circuit board that has a read only memory chip with preloaded software. Plugging the dongle into a USB port like you would a flash drive initiates a setup process. No software is loaded directly to your computer. Displayed on your computer screen is the soft phone once the setup is complete. The simplicity of this type of VoIP technology makes it so that anyone can use it

Second once the initial price is paid for device and first year of service all local and long distance calls are free. You renew your service once a year for less then 20 bucks to keep service. Monthly fees are nonexistent when calling the US or Canada. Minute rates for international calling can be purchased if needed.

You can start making calls as soon as you plug a phone into Magic Jack. Information and phone numbers can be stored in your contact lists within your soft phone of incoming or outgoing calls. It will show you the number or name of the person who is calling you on the soft phone display. An analog single from your phone is transformed to digital and sent across the internet like an email message.

Why so cheap?

Other VoIP companies need to lease the networks of switches and gateways from telecom companies where Magic Jack does not, making it possible to offer the type of once yearly renewal fee for full phone service.

Dan Borislow is the inventor of MagicJack and founder of YMAX, a CLEC (Competitive Local Exchange Carrier) certified Telecom Company. People pay him for use of his networks where Magic Jack does not. So they make their money from leasing the switches and gateways owned by essentially Magic Jack.

Also for future revenue they may sell the ad space on the space on the soft phone used now to display information about MagicJack.

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Is Bankruptcy A Way To Pardon Student Loans?

The Condition of Undue Hardship

Many people are in debt due to the student loans they took out in order to pay for their college education. With many possible solutions to remove the debt once and for all, however the most favored is bankruptcy. But being students, claiming bankruptcy is defiantly a problem because the legal terms and conditions of the student loan clearly states that the loan is non dischargeable. Due to this very reason, the loan repayment causes the borrower undue hardship. This hardship only occurs at time when the person is facing a high degree of financial problems that he or she will not be able to satisfy his or her basic needs once the loan is repaid. In order to claim bankruptcy, the borrower needs to affirm that he or she is facing undue hardship; however hard it may be.

History of Undue Hardship Clause

In the past, students were able to get rid of their student loans. However, lenders criticized the system, which lead to changes in the rules and regulations of the student loan contract. Now it is harder for students to get their loans discharges. Even thought this may seem unfair, the system was criticized because students took advantage of the system as they declared bankruptcy immediately after completing their students before they even got a job. This is why the rules and regulations of the contract had to be changed, as the lenders were losing out.

What the Clause Says About Student Loan Discharge

After the change in rules and regulations of private loans, the government felt it was necessary to apply this clause to government loans as well. This made student loan discharge even more impossible. However, in order to get a student loan discharge, you will need to prove to the government that your living of standard is not high and that you have tries every possible means of paying back the loan. Only then will your loan be pardoned.

The Sign of the Co-Signer

Even when you have met all the terms and conditions in the clause, you will need a co-signer. The co-signer is the person who signed the contract with you when you took out the loan in the first place. That specific co-signer will not be able to take into account his hardship exclusion.

What to Keep In Mind

When you decide to claim bankruptcy, you need to make sure that you have thought about it very clearly. You should only file for bankruptcy if it is necessary and there are no other options available to you. Make sure that when you are going to claim bankruptcy that it will pardon your student loan, otherwise declaring you are bankrupt will do you no good.

If you are in debt and you need to pay your student and other loans but are unable due to a low income job, you will need to visit the court. By visiting the court, you will be able to find ways to declare hardship and have a new start to your life debt free.

Friday, June 15, 2012

Application Letter Format

A right application letter format is a key that may open the doors of your success in a company. If you are looking for format of application letter this is what you should be reading. Read on, get tips along with application letter sample.
Application letters, if written impressively, can work for your best at any company/firm. It is a part of resume writing. Even if your resume isn't as heavy as other candidates applying for the same job, your application letter format may work in pleasing the interviewer, with the right choice of words. Application letter formats of various job applicants are often reviewed by the HR of the company/firm, to check the best applicant of all. If you score a ten on ten there, you are already in the interviewees list! Your job application letter should be well tailored, specifically for your profile. You should write your job application in such a way, that it highlights your achievements and specializations and play down your weaknesses. Below is a general format of application letter. More on letter writing.

Application Letter Format
Format

Applicant's contact details
Name
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Phone Number
Email Address

Date

Employer Contact Details
Name
Title
Company
Address
City, State, Zip Code

Salutation
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name, (You must leave out this space if you do not have info about whom to address or you may simply write Dear Sir/Madam. A comma after salutation is must. In some countries, dear is not used in a job application letter, since it is considered as a business letter. You should check your region's letter writing etiquettes before using 'Dear'. You may alternatively use simple Sir/Madam/Ma'am or Respected Sir/Madam.

Body of Application Letter
The body of your application letter allows the employer/HR of the firm, to know what position you are applying for, the reason why employer should shortlist you for an interview, and how will you follow-up.

First Paragraph
In an application letter format, the first paragraph must include details on why you are writing the letter. You must mention the job you are interested in and applying for and how did you find that job listing. You may include the name of a mutual contact/reference, if you have one.

Middle Paragraph(s)
The middle paragraph of a general application letter format should describe what you have to offer the company/employer. You should mention your educational background and how your qualifications are best suited for the job you are applying for. You may write about your past work experiences, and what you gained from it. Do not make it sound like a resume. Remember, that it is an application letter which is a sort of interpretation of a resume.

Final Paragraph
General application format implies that the final paragraph must be a concluding one, in which the applicant should thank the employer for considering him for the job position. Including information about the follow-up is very important and you must do it only in the final paragraph.

Complimentary Close
Faithfully/Sincerely/Respectfully yours,
Signature

You may like to read on employment application template.

Application Letter Sample

Following is an application letter sample, along with the right application letter format. You may also use it like an application letter template. All the names, addresses and contact numbers in this application letter sample are fictitious and have no relation with any person living or dead.
Job Application Letter Sample

36 Mininova Avenue
Brooklyn NY 11288

April 11, 2009

Ms. Heather Thompson
Director of Campus Relations
AMC Corporation
14 West Fifth Street
Albany, NY 10056

Dear Ms. Thompson,

I am interested in applying for the Sales Executive position recently advertised in The New York Times. The marketing skills I have developed from my past work experience and educational background support my candidacy for the announced position.

As you can see from my resume, the internship I had with XYZ Corporation, provided me an opportunity to gain practical experience with account maintenance and cold-calling new accounts. I have also worked as a waiter for the past four years, learning firsthand how to effectively deal with customers and their demands. I have been formally commended by management several times and have been rewarded with the title of "Employee of the Month" several times.

I would like an opportunity to discuss your specific needs and my overall abilities regarding the announced position. You can contact me at (718) 234-6767. You can email me at Thanking you for considering me for this position.

Sincerely,
Alex Wilson.

Enclosure(s)

So, with that information on application letter format, a sample and an application letter template, I hope it has become easier for you to write an application in the right application letter format. Be very careful while choosing your words. Make sure you do not sound repetitive about your achievements and please do not sound like a resume. Make your application letter look and sound different than others. With that, I sign off. Here's wishing you all the best for the new job!

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Car Loan Market for Consumers with Bad Credit is Booming

Car loans offer lenders a big ticket item with limited risk. While a lender's risks their entire investment on an unsecured personal loan a car loan represents less risk since the lender can take possession of the car if the loan is defaulted. Divorce often leads to bankruptcy and will impact on a consumer's credit score long after they have recovered financially. Specialized lenders have recognized that a poor credit score may not reflect on a consumer ability to make payments and have placed less emphasis on credit history and more emphasis on ability to pay.
National and regional lenders have emerged to service the very competitive bad credit car loan market referred to as the "Special Finance" or "Sub-prime" market. These lenders have further divided the "Special Finance" market up into different levels of risks to such an extent that there are lender's who has specifically targeted the most credit challenged consumer with the highest risk.
The good new is that no matter what your credit circumstances are, there is probably a lender out there for you.
Another phenomenon is the independent credit service that will process your request for credit and forward it to the lender that is most likely to approve the request. These services usually work with a car dealer who have access to both National and Regional lenders.
The Online Credit Application The independent credit service has successfully introduced the online credit application to the market. The online credit application offers a no hassle approach to applying for credit. Anyone who has sat in front of a loans officer and had to explain their credit history will find the online credit application a blessing. If you decide to complete an online credit application make sure that it is secure. Look for a security certificate. Comodo and Verisign are two companies that offer security certificates that I am familiar with. You should also look for a privacy policy to guarantee that your personal information will not be shared or sold.
A car loan is a big ticket item that can help rebuild your credit score. Some lenders will offer programs that will reduce your rate or allow you to renegotiate after a specified length of time if you have not missed or been late on a payment.
There are many lenders who specialize in products and services for consumers that have troubled financial histories including bankruptcy. An independent service will provide an online credit application and will give you access to network of lenders. Simply enter "car loans" in search box of your favorite search engine. Most of these service offer tools like loan and budget calculators.
What You Can Do The first step before shopping for a car loan is to evaluate your financial situation. By determining your income to debt ratio you can see what kind of monthly payment is feasible for you. You do not want to be overburdened by payments and find yourself in trouble again. Next you may want to check your credit rating and clean it up where possible. Your credit score is negatively affected by late payments, high debt to income ratio and past bankruptcy. Close any accounts that are not in use. Too many open accounts are a negative. Pay up any outstanding debts. If you have recently filed for bankruptcy and there are extenuating circumstances such as a lay off or divorce, consider writing a page of explanation to attach to your report.
Regardless of your past credit history there is almost always a lender who is willing to provide you with a car loan. The question is how much are you willing to pay for that loan? A few extra percentage points are worth the opportunity to rebuild your credit. But be sure that your financial house is in order before you apply so that you can qualify for the best rate and terms your current financial circumstance will allow.

Get the Facts About Free Payday Loans

You have probably heard a lot of hype about payday loans. They have certainly become extremely popular as of late. Free payday loans have reached staggering growth on the web. A payday loan is a short term loan that is to be paid back by your next pay period. Most companies will grant the borrower from 2 weeks to 30 days to pay back the loan and interest fees. There are lenders that will offer you a free payday loan online.

What's a Free Payday Loan?

A free payday loan is a type of loan that gives the customer an interest free payday loan. Free payday loans have absolutely no interest.

How Does a Free Payday Loan Work?

As I said earlier there's no interest on the amount borrowed. There are stipulations about this though. You have to pay back the loan within the timeframe agreed upon in the terms of the loan or you will be subject to interest and borrowing fees. Only first time customers get a free payday loan. After the first loan there isn't anymore breaks in a manner of speaking.

How Can I Qualify for a Free Payday Loan?

First time customers who have a checking account. In most cases you will need to have a pay check of at least 00 a month.

Where do I Find a Free Payday Loan?

Simply search the keywords "free payday loan" at Google or a search engine of your choice and you will come up with companies and more information about free payday loans.

How Do I obtain a Free Payday Loan?

Once you find a company that provides these loans. The company will have a short form, once you fill it out they will provide you with the steps you need to take. The process is extremely simple. Faxing a few documents is about the hardest thing that may have to be done.

What Amount Can I Borrow?

In most cases you will be able to borrow 0. Lenders do not usually provide an interest free loan of more than that.

So, lets review the facts about free payday loans. They are for first time customers only. They are only interest free if you payback on time. There are some rules for qualifying. You have to complete a form and maybe fax some documents.

Most of these companies will do larger loans after the first one. The second loan will not be interest free. As I mentioned earlier a free payday loan is for first time borrowers only.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

The Purpose Trust

Introduction
It has long been the position in the English legal system that trusts can only be one of two types, namely: private or charitable. However, there now exists a creature of statute which introduces a third type of trust called a purpose trust.

A purpose trust is a trust which does not have any beneficiaries and exists for a specific purpose. A purpose trust for charitable purposes would not be valid under the act. Purpose legislation exists in jurisdictions such as Liechtenstein, Cyprus, Cook Islands, British Virgin Islands, Nevis, Turks and Caicos Islands, Antigua and the Cayman Islands. Jersey and the Isle of Man introduced purpose trust legislation in 1996. The formation given below relates specifically to Isle of Man purpose trusts formed under the Isle of Man Purpose Trusts Act 1996.

Purpose trusts are not trusts in the true sense and are designed to be used as adjuncts to taxation planning structures in various ways.

How it works
A purpose trust is formed as a result of a deed of trust between a settlor and a trustee or trustees. To be enforceable the trust document must clearly define the purposes of the trust so that a court may determine these purposes.

There must be two or more trustees, at least one of whom must be a person in one of the categories specified in the act.

To enforce the trust there must be an Enforcer'. The Enforcer oversees the actions of the trustee to ensure that those actions further the purposes stated in the trust documents. The trust instrument must provide for the Enforcer to have an absolute right of access to any information or document which relates to the trust, the assets of the trust or to the administration of the trust.

The trust instrument must specify the event which causes the trust to terminate and must provide for the disposition of surplus assets of the trust upon its termination.

A purpose trust cannot have any beneficiaries, so all assets in the trust must ultimately be paid out towards the purposes of the trust, as set out in the trust document.

The designated trustee must keep a copy of the trust deed, a register and trust accounts. These accounts are open to inspection by the Attorney General but are not available for public inspection.

The trust deed and the purpose
Much care has to be taken in drafting the trust instrument particularly with regard to the purpose. There are differences in the laws of other jurisdictions which have to be taken into account if a trust is to be established. Bermuda Law, for instance, now requires a substantive purpose beyond the mere holding of shares.

The trust deed document will set out the duties of the trustee or trustees and the enforcer.

The enforcer
The role of the enforcer is to oversee the trustees to ensure that the trust is administered in order to satisfy the purpose for which it was established.
An enforcer can be a corporate entity as can the trustees. There is nothing to prevent one being the subsidiary of the other.

The enforcer may not be a trustee of the trust, nor may he profit from the trust.

Provisions exist in the law for the registration or removal of the enforcer.

Should the enforcer die or become incapable, the Attorney General may apply to the court to appoint a successor.

Uses
Off balance sheet transactions
Where, for example, restrictive covenants have been entered into preventing a particular individual or company investing in certain areas, or companies, the investments may now be held within a purpose trust. Because there are no beneficiaries to the purpose trust, a link cannot be established between the investor and the investment. If the trust were set up with a short life, then the assets would revert to the settlor on termination.

Corporate finance/asset financing
Purpose trusts can be used to segregate investment funds or asset ownership within a subsidiary (as security from the lender) from group risk.

This is clearly an acceptable form of asset protection. It is becoming common in ship and aircraft finance/construction and in leasing transactions. In all of these cases the trust ends when the loan is satisfied, while in the interim the lender/financiers' cash flow is protected. The lender is further protected because the ownership of the subsidiary cannot change until the trust is terminated.

Division of voting and economic benefit
It is sometimes necessary to demonstrate that control' is not vested in a particular entity. Different classes of shares in a company can be created with voting control being in the hands of one party and dividend rights in the hands of another. Thus voting shares may be placed in a purpose trust and the remaining shares held by the party seeking the economic benefit.

Ownership of trust companies
Some settlors of conventional trusts have concerns that control could be transferred to trustees over which a settlor has no influence. A purpose trust established to own a family trust company will usually overcome this difficulty. It enables the trustee to carry out its duties independently and gives assurance to the settlor that the board of directors of the trust company can be changed at any time by the shareholders i.e. the purpose trust. Another advantage is that on the death of the settlor the shares of the trust company are outside the settlor's estate and will therefore not pass to heirs who might otherwise control the trust company in a way not intended by the settlor.

Securitisation
Many structures creating international securitisation which in the past have used a charitable trust can now be set up using a purpose trust.

Social Benefits
A trust may have social, though not charitable, objects. For instance, a trust could be set up to benefit an area of outstanding beauty and to provide funds for its maintenance.

Investment in family companies
Much has been written about the difficulty of trustees of a non-purpose trust holding shares in family companies where the economic purpose is poor. If instead a purpose trust were put in place with the purpose of investing in Smith family companies' the trustees would have no need to be concerned that their actions could be criticised.

Acceptance
International recognition must be considered. Will the courts of the jurisdictions of the situs of the trust property, of the domicile and residence of the settlor and beneficiaries, and any other relevant jurisdictions recognise the purpose trust as a valid trust? Those states which have ratified the Hague Convention on trusts have undertaken to recognise trusts for a specified purpose'.

Taxation
A taxable event occurs on the termination of the trust if the assets revert to the settlor. There may also be tax implications of the initial transfer of assets into the trust.

While the assets are under ownership of the trustees of a purpose trust the taxation will at least be neutral. In the case of assets which can physically be removed to the Isle of Man, the taxation can be seriously mitigated and, in some circumstances, possibly eliminated altogether.

Summary
The purpose trust has several significant advantages over conventional trusts in certain situations. An important factor is that there is a clearly defined trust deed and strong modern legislation supporting the structure.

Certain changes must be reported to the authorities. The records of the trusts may be inspected by the Attorney General (Isle of Man) and there is a much more visible and comprehensible regulatory framework.

The role of the enforcer is a key feature.

Its use in segregating assets, in dealing with fixed term events like loan replacement, and in providing a layer of confidentiality and its flexibility make it a valuable tax planning tool for the 21st century.

Pay day Loans Of $1000 Based On Provable Earnings

A couple of of the payday loan companies do not loan out significant amounts of funds like this, nonetheless, and they remain with loans up to around 0. However, there...

Some payday loans companies allow their customers to borrow around 00 if they pay it back according to their payment schedule. Payday loan consumers need to know, nevertheless, that they will end up repaying the money advance organization a lot far more than they borrowed because of the high interest that is added to the payday loan.

A couple of of the payday loan firms do not loan out large amounts of cash like this, however, and they remain with loans up to about 0. However, there are times that payday loan customers might require a bigger quantity so do not depend upon a specific payday loan organization to loan you as much income as you require. You could end up getting disappointed.

A lot of individuals see a payday loans as their last resort simply because they have no other possibilities for getting a loan. A lot of individuals say that payday loans should only be used if you are borrowing a little quantity of cash that the typical loan channels will not help you with. A lot of of the loan companies cannot loan much less than 00, but payday loan companies may possibly see your 00 loan as a significant loan and add on a large interest rate as nicely.

If you can uncover a loan business that will loan you 00 then that is the greatest choice. This is because the loan business will most likely charge you a significantly lower interest rate than the payday loan organization will, which will make the terms of your loan easier to meet.

Most payday loan organizations charges from to dollars per every single 0 that you borrow. You can also file for loan extension in case that you ca not pay on the due date. Notice that filing the extension, the payday loan company will charge the interest twice. First a single, on the original due date and the second one particular, on the new due date if the extension is approved.

A few of the payday loan businesses do not loan out huge amounts of cash like this, nonetheless, and they remain with loans up to around 0. However, there...

Some payday loans organizations permit their buyers to borrow about 00 if they spend it back according to their payment schedule. Payday loan clients want to know, nonetheless, that they will end up repaying the money advance company a lot more than they borrowed due to the fact of the high interest that is added to the payday loan.

A handful of of the payday loan organizations do not loan out big amounts of cash like this, however, and they stay with loans up to about 0. Even so, there are instances that payday loan buyers might need a bigger quantity so do not depend upon a certain payday loan firm to loan you as considerably money as you need. You could end up being disappointed.

A lot of people see a payday loans as their final resort due to the fact they have no other choices for acquiring a loan. Several people say that payday loans must only be employed if you are borrowing a little amount of income that the normal loan channels will not help you with. Numerous of the loan businesses can't loan less than 00, but payday loan firms could see your 00 loan as a huge loan and add on a significant interest rate as well.

Monday, June 11, 2012

Creditors Taking Money Out Of Your Paycheck

If a creditor has problems in collecting a debt from you, he has a few options at his disposal. One of them is to sue you and attempt to garnishee your paycheck. What this basically means is that, since he is unable to get the money directly from you, he is asking the courts to force your employer to take money from your paycheck and send it to him. To protect you and prevent abuses by the creditor, however, both the federal and state governments have enacted a set of rules as to how this should work.

The first thing that must happen is that the court must actually rule against you. If the creditor sues and the courts reject his claim, the creditor is out of luck and will not be able to legally collect any monies from you. If, however, the court enters a judgement against you and the creditor prevails, the court can then direct your employer to set aside a certain amount of your paycheck each week and send it to the creditor until the debt is resolved. In legal terms, this is known as wage garnishment or a wage attachment.

In order to prevent you from becoming destitute, there are Federal and state limits as to how much money can be taken from your paycheck. The federal limit is the lessor of 25% of your weekly paycheck or a calculated formula comparing the dollar amount of your weekly paycheck minus 30 times the minimum hourly income. In addition to federal wage attachment laws, all states have their individual laws. These laws, however, must provide at least the protection to the debtor that the federal laws provide.

In fact, some states have enacted significantly tougher wage garnishment rules on creditors than the federal laws do. These laws may either add additional barriers that the creditor has to overcome if they want the courts to rule in their favor. Or, the laws may go much further in limiting the amount of money that can be deducted from the debtors paycheck. In practical terms, what this means is that a creditor bringing a suit against a creditor in Minnesota can expect different results than a creditor filing a lawsuit in Arizona.

A number of employees are needlessly afraid of wage garnishments. Yes, it is embarrassing. But, primarily they are afraid of being fired by their employer when their employer discovers that a creditor has sued them for money. But, the federal law explicitly prevents an employer from firing you due to a wage garnishment. If an employer does fire you, however, you will have a legitimate criminal lawsuit to bring against your employer.

Now, to be sure, the fact that their wages are being garnished can be embarrassing for the debtor. But, in a society where debt is such a large part of nearly all financial transactions, it is a necessary tool that allows creditors to be repaid what they are legitimately owed.

Friday, June 8, 2012

Helpful Photography Tips:shooting In Monochrome

Shooting in Monochrome
To give a contemporary photo an old-fashioned feel, try shooting in monochrome. A picture done entirely in black and white or sepia tones achieves on old time look. Rather than editing the picture through a computer program, many digital cameras feature a setting that enables you to actually shoot the images directly in monochrome.

The monochrome setting option simplifies the process of creating these stunning pictures. No software or special knowledge of photo editing is required to produce these stunning images. Depending on what type of digital camera you have, the monochrome setting will be located in the My Colours, Colour or Picture Style settings menu.

Types of monochrome settings
Once you've located the monochrome setting, you will see that you have different options. Black and white and sepia settings are offered by most digital cameras. Colour monochrome settings, such as green and blue, are included in some cameras as well. The more advanced cameras enable you to enhance the monochrome mode with various coloured filters. These filters allow you to achieve a number of effects. For instance, you can recreate the effect of a red filter over black and white film. Also, any colours in the subject that are the same colour as the filter can be selectively lightened.

Choosing a setting
Consider the emotion you want the photo to evoke. Sepia tones create a different feel than black and white, and vice versa. For example, a sepia-toned image will present a softer look, reminiscent of antique photos. Black and white, on the other hand, is ideal for photographing strong structural elements for stark contrasts.

Choosing your subject
Landscapes and city scenes tend to feature strong structural elements, such as buildings. Shadows actually enhance these subjects. Sunlight casts the lines and angles with dramatic patterns. To record the most detail possible, use an ISO setting of 200 or less. Low ISO settings best capture the shadows and structures that make for striking monochrome photos.

Gentle, more romantic settings also lend themselves well to monochrome mode. A dream-like or nostalgic mood can be evoked through monochrome photography. Subtle nuances emerge through the variations in tone.

Portraits, of both pets and people, are excellent subjects for monochrome photographs, particularly those done in black and white. You can vary the effect by changing the lighting. Soft light minimises the appearance of blemishes. Directional lighting, lighting which emanates from a single source, accentuates facial features.

Tips for shooting in monochrome
As explained above, the monochrome setting directly captures monochrome images. No colour information is recorded. While colour photos can be made monochrome with computer software, a photo taken in the monochrome setting cannot be reverted to colour. That is, unless you take the pictures in RAW format.

Try using your digital camera's flash, whether inside or outside, when taking monochrome photos. Although the flash might washout an image taken in colour, that same flash can cast desirable dramatic shadows in monochrome.

Experiment with the different filters before you start taking photos. Your efforts will be better directed if you first know the effect that each filter achieves.

This article was brought to you by Canon Australia - Helpful photography tips

About Canon

Canon Australia is a leading provider of advanced, simple-to-use imaging solutions for businesses and consumers. Canon's Australian R&D company, CiSRA, develops customised solutions for local customers, and exports digital imaging technologies for use in Canon products worldwide. Canon has ranked among the top-three US patent recipients for the past 16 years, and had global revenues of around $ US39 billion in 2007. Canon Australia also operates Canon Finance Australia, which offers one-stop shopping for customers wanting leasing or finance services. For more information, visit canon.com.au.

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Wednesday, June 6, 2012

Lignetics: premium wood pellets, pres-to-logs, and firestarters.

Lignetics: Manufacturer of wood pellets, Pres-to-logs and Firestarters

With more than 30 years in the wood pellet industry, Lignetics is one of the founding pioneers of manufacturing premium wood pellets and Pres-to-Logs

Becoming A Self-employed Entrepreneur The Netherlands

Registration in the Dutch trade register is compulsory for every company and every legal entity, including 'freelance' and 'zzp' ('zelfstandige zonder personeel' or self-employed without staff).

When you have decided to start your own business a new world is opening up, with a wide variety of possibilities. You could open a shop or start your own consultancy firm; become a full-time or a part-time entrepreneur. Clients may wish to hire you for advice or construction work.
Before plucking up which is planted, there is a time to plant. In other words: you will have to be prepared to tackle challenges as well - either as a provider of services or products, as a self-employed entrepreneur, a sole trader, an independent contractor, or as a freelancer or so-called "ZZP-er".

The risky side of freedom and independence

Whether you offer services or products: you will do so at your own risk, expense and with full responsibility towards third parties. As well as this, being self-employed entails certain obligations, such as paying taxes and VAT and keeping records of your business activities. Preparing well is the best way to start. You are definitely not on your own; the Dutch business world offers plenty of competent assistance.

Starting point

Before you visit the Chamber of Commerce to register your enterprise, you should have considered the following:

* a permit to start a business in the Netherlands
* a business plan
* legal form and trade name of your enterprise
* taxation and necessary insurance
* business location, commercial lease
* a VAR'-statement from the Tax Administration, declaring you as a self-employed entrepreneur

Starting your own business

If you do not have the Dutch nationality, and want to start a business in the Netherlands, you will have to comply with particular IND (Immigratie en Naturalisatie Dienst, the Dutch immigration authorities) formalities. Even if you are not obliged to register with the IND (for almost all EU nationals) please do so all the same, as it may come in quite handy for other purposes.

The Dutch Chambers of Commerce are incorporated under public law and, as such, target their services at Dutch businesses across all sectors.

Dutch immigration authorities

The legal form of your enterprise makes no difference to the applicability of the rules by the Dutch immigration authorities: whether it is a one-man business, a Dutch private limited (BV), or a branch-office of a foreign company. The rules do not differ either whether you start an enterprise shortly after arriving in the Netherlands, or after having been employed in the Netherlands for some time. However, rules and formalities do differ broadly speaking for EU nationals and non-EU nationals. Please check also the IND Residence Wizard

EU, EEA and Swiss nationals

Nationals of one of the EU Member States, the EEA (European Economic Area), or a Swiss citizen, are free to live and work on a self-employed basis in the Netherlands and do not need an entry visa or a residence permit.

Even if you are not obliged to register with the IND, do so all the same, as it may come in handy in the future. For instance, when asked for proof of registration on taking out Dutch public healthcare insurance, a healthcare, housing or childcare allowance, a mortgage, or a phone subscription. Registration is free of charge. If you intend to stay over four months, you are always required to register at your local municipality. The expatdesk will help you out here.

Working on a self-employed basis when a EU, EEA and Swiss national

There are no specific IND formalities that have to be fulfilled for nationals of these states.

Different rules apply for citizens of Bulgaria or Romania as long as restrictions on the Dutch labour market remain in force. Nationals of these countries are advised to apply for a residence permit, which will be useful in a number of situations. The procedure is called "Application for assessment under the EU community law (proof of lawful residence)".

Nationals of non-EU and non-EEA countries

If you are not a national of an EU or EEA country and not Swiss, you will need to apply for a residence permit in case you stay longer than three months in the Netherlands. A residence permit can be obtained from the IND.

If you are a national of a country subject to the Dutch visa requirement for more than three months' stay, you will have to apply for a special visa: a provisional residence permit, an MVV (Machtiging Voorlopig Verblijf).

Working on a self-employed basis as national of non-EU / non-EEA country and non-Swiss
In this case you will have to meet several economic criteria before starting an enterprise in the Netherlands:

* You are qualified to run the business in question.
* You have a business plan.
* Your business serves an essential Dutch interest, i.e. "added value" for the Netherlands.

The IND does not weigh these criteria itself; the Ministry of Economic Affairs is requested to review your situation and to decide whether the business you intend to run will be economically interesting. If this turns out not to be the case, you cannot start your own business in the Netherlands.

Review of economic added value

* a permit to start a business in the Netherlands
* a business plan
* legal form and trade name of your enterprise
* taxation and necessary insurance
* business location, commercial lease
* a VAR'-statement from the Tax Administration, declaring you as a self-employed entrepreneur

Starting your own business

If you do not have the Dutch nationality, and want to start a business in the Netherlands, you will have to comply with particular IND (Immigratie en Naturalisatie Dienst, the Dutch immigration authorities) formalities. Even if you are not obliged to register with the IND (for almost all EU nationals) please do so all the same, as it may come in quite handy for other purposes.

The Dutch Chambers of Commerce are incorporated under public law and, as such, target their services at Dutch businesses across all sectors.

Dutch immigration authorities

The legal form of your enterprise makes no difference to the applicability of the rules by the Dutch immigration authorities: whether it is a one-man business, a Dutch private limited (BV), or a branch-office of a foreign company. The rules do not differ either whether you start an enterprise shortly after arriving in the Netherlands, or after having been employed in the Netherlands for some time. However, rules and formalities do differ broadly speaking for EU nationals and non-EU nationals. Please check also the IND Residence Wizard

EU, EEA and Swiss nationals

Nationals of one of the EU Member States, the EEA (European Economic Area), or a Swiss citizen, are free to live and work on a self-employed basis in the Netherlands and do not need an entry visa or a residence permit.

Even if you are not obliged to register with the IND, do so all the same, as it may come in handy in the future. For instance, when asked for proof of registration on taking out Dutch public healthcare insurance, a healthcare, housing or childcare allowance, a mortgage, or a phone subscription. Registration is free of charge. If you intend to stay over four months, you are always required to register at your local municipality. The expatdesk will help you out here.

Working on a self-employed basis when a EU, EEA and Swiss national

There are no specific IND formalities that have to be fulfilled for nationals of these states.

Different rules apply for citizens of Bulgaria or Romania as long as restrictions on the Dutch labour market remain in force. Nationals of these countries are advised to apply for a residence permit, which will be useful in a number of situations. The procedure is called "Application for assessment under the EU community law (proof of lawful residence)".

Nationals of non-EU and non-EEA countries

If you are not a national of an EU or EEA country and not Swiss, you will need to apply for a residence permit in case you stay longer than three months in the Netherlands. A residence permit can be obtained from the IND.

If you are a national of a country subject to the Dutch visa requirement for more than three months' stay, you will have to apply for a special visa: a provisional residence permit, an MVV (Machtiging Voorlopig Verblijf).

Working on a self-employed basis as national of non-EU / non-EEA country and non-Swiss
In this case you will have to meet several economic criteria before starting an enterprise in the Netherlands:

* You are qualified to run the business in question.
* You have a business plan.
* Your business serves an essential Dutch interest, i.e. "added value" for the Netherlands.

The IND does not weigh these criteria itself; the Ministry of Economic Affairs is requested to review your situation and to decide whether the business you intend to run will be economically interesting. If this turns out not to be the case, you cannot start your own business in the Netherlands.

Review of economic added value
The Ministry of Economic Affairs awards points for each criterion. You will need a minimum of 30 points for each criterion (total number for all criteria: 300).

The scoring system consists of three parts:

a) Personal experience (education, experience as a self-employed person, working experience);
b) Business plan (market analysis, product/service, price, organisation, financing);
c) Material economic purpose for the Netherlands (innovative, job creation, investments).

You should always contact the IND to find out about the procedure involved in testing the economic interest of the enterprise you intend to start. For nationals of some countries, for example Turkey, special rules apply on the basis of treaties between the EU and these countries. And when you are from the United States of America, it is important to know there is the so-called Nederland-Amerikaans' vriendschapsverdrag'.

Taking your business from abroad

The Dutch comparative companies Act recognises all foreign legal entities except businesses owned by one man or one woman. If you run a one-person business in your country of origin and you can prove this, for example by submitting a copy of registration in a commercial register in that country, you can bring this enterprise to the Netherlands and have it registered at the Chamber of Commerce as a Dutch one-man or -woman business.

Other legal foreign entities or foreign business forms are simply registered as a foreign legal entity with commercial activities.

Please note that you will still have to comply with the IND residency rules

Starting a branch office in the Netherlands

There is a question of a branch when long-lasting business operations, which form part of the foreign enterprise, are (being) conducted in the Netherlands. A branch can be: a sales office or a production company, but also a representative office. It does not have an independent legal form, but is a part of the foreign enterprise.

Dutch law recognises foreign legal entities. In other words: the foreign legal entity wishing to start activities in the Netherlands needs not be converted into a Dutch legal form.

A business plan is essential

No matter small or big the business is, a business plan will help you identify areas of strengths and weaknesses.

Banks require a business plan when you take out a loan. Even if you do not need the latter, and financing your enterprise is not a problem, a business plan will definitely help you understand the impact of starting a business. Submitting a business plan is also one of the criteria set for non-EU and non-EEA nationals to be allowed to start their own enterprise in the Netherlands.

Get started: Write the plan yourself

Crucial questions you should ask are:

* Which legal form will best suit the enterprise?
* Which products or services will you offer?
* Who will be your clients?
* Promotional activities to get contracts?
* How to optimize visibility to your target group?
* Which prices and fees?
* Financial plan (available budgets, expected turnover, investments)?
* Which insurances do you need?
* Permits and/or licences required?
* Administrational organisation, which form?
* What should be included in your General Terms and Conditions if applicable?

Formats

Business plan formats can be obtained from various private parties that specialise in supporting starters. Just surf the internet. Small business planner at is a useful site.

Employment law issue: employed or self-employed?

If you go freelance, you should pay extra attention to your situation, because the term 'freelancer' is not a definition recognized by law. Freelancers operate somewhere in between being self-employed and being in paid employment.

As an independent entrepreneur you pay taxes and contributions yourself, and you are not entitled to rights employers are: minimum wage, paid holidays, a holiday allowance, statutory safeguards against dismissal and a statutory notice period.

In order to designate the employment relationship while starting your business, it is important to consider different contracts and apply for a Verklaring Arbeidsrelatie (VAR) at the Tax Administration.

Employment on the basis of a contract and implied employment

Regardless of the title chosen for the contract with your client, it is considered an employment contract if the following criteria are met:

* your remuneration for the work performed can be seen as wages;
* there is an obligation to do the work yourself: you cannot send someone else to do the job for you. Having to be available for specific work, e.g. on-call service, will also be considered as work performed in employment;
* a relationship of authority: the employer can determine where, when and how the work should be carried out. This relation also exists if the work you do is an essential element in the employer's business operations or if the employer's profitability is at risk without you.

If the working relation does not show all characteristics of a "proper" employment relation, it may still be seen as one. This is called a notional employment relationship: although the employment relation has not been established explicitly, there is an implicit employer-employee relation. Consequently, the fee you charge is seen as wage, so, the employer will have to deduct taxes from your wages and pay national insurance and employee insurance contributions.

A notional employment relation exists if:

* you work for a client project for at least at two days a week;
* you earn more than 40% of the minimum wages for the project a week;
* the relation with the client lasts more than 30 days; a new contract within one month after the termination of the first contract is seen as continuation of the previous contract.

A notional employment does not exist if actual and practical independence can be proven, for which a VAR can be instrumental.

Commercial contracts

As a self-employed entrepreneur you or your client can initiate to formalise the contractor-client relation by entering into a commercial contract. Parties should always insist on putting down the arrangements agreed upon.
There are two types of commercial contracts:
1. Service agreement - Under this type of contract you are obliged to perform to the best of your ability, committing yourself to do your client's work without being employed by him. The work is usually classified as services'.
2. Contractor agreement - Under this type of contract you have a specific target obligation. You commit yourself to produce a concrete, tangible object at a certain price.

Criteria for legal independence: Actual circumstances are decisive here. An official statement signed by client and yourself that the contract is a commercial one is helpful proof. Criteria are:

* the degree of independence and absence of supervision/authority;
* permanence;
* pursuit of profit;
* clientele.

Not just these criteria, but their interconnection especially plays a decisive role.

De Verklaring Arbeidsrelatie (VAR)

In order to designate the employment relationship you can apply for a Verklaring Arbeidsrelatie (VAR) at the Tax Administration. The VAR is an official statement. Based upon the applicant's information the Tax Administration will define income as:

* Income earned in employment: the freelancer will have a VAR income.
* Income earned from other proceedings: the freelancer will have a VAR-row.
* Profit from enterprise: the freelancer will have a VAR-wuo.
* Partnership's own risk and account: the freelancer will have a VAR-dga.

VAR-income and -row: employed or not?

With a view to the VAR-income and row, the employer will have to define and check whether he should pay income tax and employees insurance premiums, based upon the existence of an employment contract or otherwise. Explanatory assistance but no definite answer! - can be found at the website of the Ministry of Finance. The Tax Administration may conclude differently.

VAR-wuo and dga: certainty in advance

Only VAR-wuo or -dga supply the employer beforehand with complete financial certainty provided he meets the following conditions:

* The freelancer's activities should be similar to the VAR's description. So, the freelancer is not entitled to carry out IT work if the VAR denotes carpentry.
* The freelancer is on the job during the validity of the VAR (1 calendar year).
* The VAR should be the authentic original.
* The employer should determine the freelancer's identity on the basis of a valid proof of identity (not driver's licence). Copies of the VAR and proof of identity should be kept in the administration for seven years.

Having acted this way, the employer has a solid defence in case the Tax Administration or UWV may reach another verdict afterwards. So, it may be wise for both freelancers and employers to object against a VAR-income or -row.

VAR application

Bearing in mind the utmost importance of the VAR-outcome, it is obviously important to carefully fill out the VAR-form. Only the freelancer him/herself is allowed to apply for a Verklaring Arbeidsrelatie (VAR); the employer is not entitled to do this. A directeur-groot aandeelhouder (DGA) should apply for a VAR in case of external consultancy.

The Tax Administration provides a digital VAR application form; to which you will get a reply within 8 weeks. If additional information is needed, the Tax Administration will contact the applicant.

Please note the following when filling out the form: The Tax Administration considers request as a total, coherently, and takes the activities into account. If not all answers are favourable it does not necessarily mean that no VAR-wuo will be given. For example: an interim manager with two or more employers can still be entitled to a VAR-wuo.

The freelancer should write down reasonable expectations. If, however, the actual situation afterwards turns out to have been differently, this will not have any consequences as long as the deviation is within normal risk of enterprise limits. For example, the freelancer expected to have 3 or more employers, but due to a recession this turned out differently.

The freelancer has to fill out the form to the best of his knowledge and should not deliberately misrepresent the state of affairs. If this should afterwards be proven to have been the case, the Tax Administration will recover the indebted taxes and premiums from the freelancer.

Some of the questions need a yes' or no' only; choose the nearest suitable.

Relation employer/former employer

As a part-time independent entrepreneur / part-time employee you could get involved in a conflict of interest with your (former) employer. If you intend to provide services, comparable to the ones he provides, you better ask his permission/advice to run your own business.

Starting a business as a full-time independent entrepreneur you should be aware of a possible conflict of interests as well. You probably signed a non-competition clause within your employment contract that remains valid after termination of employment. In any case it is wise to contact/consult your (former) employer of your intentions.

Legal forms and registration of an enterprise

The Chambers of Commerce can answer your questions about the legal environment of your business. Seminars and other regular services are available.

The majority of starting entrepreneurs either choose a one-man business or a general partnership as the legal form for their business, according to their preference on doing business by themselves or in cooperation with others.

In order to accommodate the starting entrepreneur or professional, Dutch law recognizes various legal forms, such as a one-man business, a private limited company (BV), a partnership or a limited partnership. The main issues at stake are the matter of liability if your enterprise should run up debts, and which tax regime applies.

One-person business

One-person business (lit. one-man in Dutch: eenmanzak) is also referred to as sole trader or sole proprietorship or independent contractor.

If you start a one-person business you will be the fully independent founder and owner. More than one person may work in a one-person business, but there can only be one owner. A one-person business can also employ personnel.

Setting up

You can establish a one-person business without a notarial deed. Registration in the Trade Register is mandatory. As a private individual you can only register one one-man business. However, you can have more than one trade name and carry out various business activities under different trade names. These activities can be carried out at the same or at another address, as a branch office of the one-man business.

Liability

As the owner of a one-person business you are responsible for everything concerning your enterprise; for every legal act and all its assets and liabilities. No distinction is made between private and business property. Thus, business creditors can seek recovery from your private property and private creditors from your business property. If your one-man business goes bankrupt, you yourself go bankrupt as well.

If the owner of a one-person business should be married in a community of property regime, the creditors may also lay claim to the partner's property. Partner liability can be avoided by a prenuptial or a postnuptial agreement drafted by a civil-law notary. However, since partners are usually requested to co-sign when taking a loan, the agreement may not offer the protection expected. A civil-law notary can provide more information.

Taxes and social security

The profit made in a one-person business is taxed in box 1 income tax. If the Tax Administration fully considers you an entrepreneur, you are entitled to tax allowances such as the entrepreneur's allowance, investment allowance and the tax-deferred retirement allowance.

The owner of a one-person business cannot claim social benefits under the Sickness Benefits Act, the Work and Income Act and the Unemployment Insurance Act. Therefore, it is advisable to take out insurances to cover these risks. You will qualify for the following national insurance schemes:

* General Old Age Pensions Act
* -Surviving Dependants Act
* Exceptional Medical Expenses Act
* General Child Benefit Act

Continuation of the business activities and business succession

With a one-man business no distinction is made between private and business. If you die, both business and private property will fall into your heirs' estate. You will need to make provisions to guarantee your business' continuity. A tax consultant could provide more details.

B. General partnership, the "VOF"

A general partnership is a form of cooperation in which you run a business with one or more business partners. You and your partner(s) are the associates or members of the general partnership. One of the characteristics of this legal form is that each partner contributes something to the business: capital, goods, efforts (work) and/or goodwill.

Setting up

A partnership contract is not a statutory requirement for the formation of a general partnership, but it is, of course, advisable to put down in writing what you and your business partner(s) have agreed upon. A partnership contract could arrange the following matters:

* name of the general partnership;
* objective;
* contributions by partners in capital, knowhow, goodwill, assets and efforts (work);
* distribution of profits and offset of loss;
* allocation of powers;
* arrangements in case of illness;
* arrangements for a partner's days off/ holiday.

Liability

An important characteristic of the general partnership is the joint and separate liability of the partners. Each partner can be held fully liable - including private property - if the general partnership fails to meet its obligations, even if these obligations were entered into by another, authorised partner. Creditors of the partnership may seek recovery from your business property and your private property and the property of the other partner(s). Restrictions agreed upon in the partners' authority have to be officially registered in order to gain legal effectiveness towards third parties.

The general partnership usually has separate capital', i.e. the business capital contributed by the partners, which is kept apart from their private property and capital. This capital is to be solely used for business purposes. Should one or more creditors seek recovery from the partnership - for instance in the case of bankruptcy - they could do so from the separate capital. If this should be inadequate to pay the partnership's debts, creditors may seek full recovery from the partners' private property. If so, you could hold the other partner(s) liable for having failed to meet their obligations, but only after the creditors have been paid. In private matters creditors of partners cannot seek recovery from the partnership's business assets or the private property of the other partner(s).

Because of this partners' broad liability it is advisable to have a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement drafted if you are married under a community of property regime. A civil-law notary could provide you with more information.

Taxes and social security

Each partner will pay their own income tax on his profit share. If the Tax Administration sees the individual partner as an entrepreneur, they are entitled to all kinds of tax allowances, such as the entrepreneur's allowance, investment allowance and the tax-deferred retirement allowance.

As far as social security is concerned, the same rules apply for the entrepreneur partner as for the owner of a one-person business.

Continuation of the business activities and business succession

Under Dutch law the general partnership ends when one of the partners resigns or dies. In order to secure the continuation of the general partnership, the partners can include a clause in the partnership contract arranging for the other partners to continue the general partnership with or without a new partner or to terminate it.

C. Limited partnership, the "CV"

A limited partnership, the "CV", is a special type of general partnership (VOF). The difference is that the CV has two types of business partners: general, and limited or sleeping partners. The latter are only financially involved; they cannot act on behalf of the partnership. Besides, the name of a limited partner cannot be used in the trade name of the limited partnership.

Setting up

A partnership contract is no statutory requirement for a limited partnership, but, again, partners better put down the agreements. Apart from the matters mentioned in the VOF, the contract should arrange the distribution of profit between general and limited partners. When registering a limited partnership in the Trade Register, the personal details of the general partners are listed; the details concerning the limited partners are restricted to total number and their contributions in the partnership.

Liability

General partners can be held fully liable if the partnership fails to meet its obligations. Bankruptcy of the limited partnership will automatically lead to the general partners' bankruptcy (not applicable to limited partners). A limited partner can only be held liable to the maximum sum contributed to the partnership. However, should the limited partner act on behalf of the partnership, he will be seen as a general partner and fully liable, in which case creditors of the partnership can lay claim on his private property as well. Restrictions agreed upon in the partners' authority have to be officially registered in order to gain legal force towards third parties.

The general partners' liability in a limited partnership is quite broad, so, if partners are married under a community of property regime they are advised to have a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement drafted. A civil-law notary could provide more information.

Taxes and social security

General partners pay income tax on their share in the profit. If the Tax Administration sees the individual partner as an entrepreneur, they are entitled to various tax allowances, such as the entrepreneur's allowance, investment allowance and the tax-deferred retirement allowance. As far as social security is concerned, the same rules apply to the entrepreneur partner as to the owner of a one-person business. Limited partners, who cannot be held personally liable for the enterprise's debts, are not seen as entrepreneurs by the Tax Administration.

Continuation of the business activities and business succession

Under Dutch law the limited partnership ends when one of the partners resigns or dies. In order to secure the continuation of the limited partnership, the partners can include a clause in the contract arranging for the other partners to continue the partnership with or without a new partner or to terminate it.

D. Professional partnership, the maatschap'

The partnership referred to as maatschap' under Dutch law differs from the general partnership and the limited partnership in that it is a form of cooperation established by professionals such as doctors, dentist, lawyers, accountants, physiotherapists etc., rather than a cooperation established for the purpose of doing business. The partners are referred to as maten' instead of partners'. Each maat' contributes personal efforts, capital and/or assets. The purpose is to share the income earned on the one hand and the expenses incurred on the other.
Setting up a professional partnership

A partnership contract is no statutory requirement for the formation of a professional partnership, but partners better lay down their agreements with the other professionals in a partnership contract. This partnership contract could arrange the following matters:

* contributions made by the partners;
* distribution of profits, pro rata each partner's contribution - distributing all profit to one partner is not allowed;
* allocation of powers - each partner is entitled to perform management acts, unless agreed upon otherwise; as of 1 July 2008 the professional partnership has to register in the Trade Register. This does not apply to partnerships that only act internally, such as a partnership in which costs are pooled.

Liability

Each authorised partner can enter into a contract, thus binding the partnership: all partners. Each partner can be held liable for an equal part. If a partner should act beyond his authorization, the other partners will in principle not be held liable: the partner in question is the only partner that has bound himself. A professional partnership has no separate capital' from the private assets of the partners. Creditors having a claim on the partnership can only seek recovery for equal parts from the individual partners; these creditors do not rank above creditors who have a claim on the private assets of a partner. To a married partner the same reservations apply as to the general partners in general partnerships and limited partnerships. They are advised to have a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement drafted. A civil-law notary could provide more information.

Taxes and social security
Each partner pays income tax on his profit share. If the Tax Administration sees the individual partner as an entrepreneur, he is entitled to various tax allowances, such as the entrepreneur's allowance, investment allowance and the tax-deferred retirement allowance. Regarding social security the same rules apply to the entrepreneur partner as to the owner of a one-man business

Continuation of the business activities and business succession

Under Dutch law the professional partnership ends when one of the partners resigns or dies. In order to secure the continuation of the partnership, the partners can include a clause in the contract arranging for the other partners to continue the partnership with or without a new partner or to terminate it.

E. Private company with limited liability, BV'

In contrast to the legal forms described above - enterprises run by natural persons - the private limited is a legal person: a person having rights and obligations, just like a natural person. The natural person who has incorporated the private limited cannot be held liable, in principle, for the debts incurred by the private limited. The BV itself is seen as the entrepreneur, whereas the natural person who is appointed director merely acts on behalf of the BV and cannot be held personally liable for his acts. A private limited company can be incorporated by one person a sole shareholder BV or by more persons. The capital of a private limited is divided in shares.

Incorporating

This involves a number of statutory requirements, most important of which:
Incorporation takes place through a notarial deed. This should include the articles of association of the company. The civil-law notary will check the legal contents of the articles.
A certificate of no-objection from the Ministry of Justice must be submitted before the incorporation can be effected. The Ministry checks whether the person incorporating the company has ever been involved in bankruptcy proceedings or fraud cases.

The incorporation of a BV requires a minimum capital of EUR 18,000 (cash or in kind) in the private limited.

Liability

The shareholder's liability is limited to the total sum of his participation. Since the BV is a legal person, having its own independent rights and obligations, the persons involved - directors and supervisors - cannot be held liable for the debt of the company. In other words: the company's creditors can never seek recovery from the private assets of these officers. However, a company director or officer may be held liable as a private person if he has acted negligently or culpably. If they are responsible for the company's bankruptcy because of wrongful or fraudulent behaviour in the company's policy, creditors of the company may file a claim against them.

In the formation phase of the company, a director may be liable for the company's acts. This liability ends as soon as the legal person is incorporated and the acts are confirmed by the company. As long as the company has not been registered in the Trade Register, directors' and officers' liability continues. In practice, limited liability often does not apply because banks require the director and principal shareholder of the company to co-sign for loans taken out on behalf of the BV.

Taxes and social security

The private limited pays corporation tax also referred to as company income tax on the profits earned. The BV's director and shareholder are employed by the BV His eligibility for social security under the Dutch social security laws depends on the relation of authority between himself and the private limited. A relation of authority is considered not to exist if:

* the director, possibly with his or her spouse, can cast more than 50% of the votes in the shareholders' meeting;
* two thirds or more of the shares are held by the director and/or close relatives up to the third degree;
* the director cannot be dismissed against their will.

Without a relation of authority, the director and shareholder cannot rely on the social security insurances. He will have to take out his own insurances; to him the same rules apply as to the owner of a one-person business.

Continuation of the business activities and business succession

Continuation of the company is secured by the fact that the BV is a legal person that exists independently from the persons having incorporated or managing the private limited. When the director dies, the continuation of the enterprise is not at risk, viz. the enterprise is run by the BV and a new director will have to be appointed.

A private limited can be sold in two different ways:

* BV's shares are sold;
* BV's enterprise (machines, inventory, stocks, etc.) is sold.

If the shares are sold, the proceeds are subject to income tax (box 2) if the shareholder has a substantial interest (holder of a minimum of 5% of the shares).

If the enterprise is sold, the BV will have to pay corporation tax on the profit or book profit on the sale. If the shareholder of the BV selling the enterprise is a BV itself, the structure is referred to as a holding - advantage of which: the holding will in principle have to pay taxes on the proceeds.

Registration of your enterprise

Before you are allowed to start your business operations, you have to register your enterprise in the Dutch Trade Register, which is administered by the Chambers of Commerce. Registrations in the Trade Register are public; everyone can check whether a particular person is authorised to act on behalf of an enterprise and which legal form it has: a one-man business, a partnership or a private or public limited.

The Chamber of Commerce could run a trade name investigation for you to make sure that the selected trade name does not infringe the rights of other enterprises. This trade name investigation is not free of charge.

Holland Gateway (the cooperation of the Netherlands Chambers of Commerce, Ministry of Economic Affairs and other official institutions) is located at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. This bureau promotes the ease of doing business in the Netherlands.

How to register your enterprise

Registration requirements

Once you have decided upon your business' legal form, you can have your enterprise registered at the local Chamber of Commerce. Registration should take place within a period of one week preceding, and one week following the actual commencement of business activities.

Without registration in the GBA, you will need to submit authenticated proof of your residential address abroad. The person registering the business has to submit a valid proof of identity, which document has to be personally submitted at the Chamber of Commerce. The following documents are accepted as valid IDs:

* a valid travel document (passport or European ID card);
* a valid Dutch driving licence (non-Dutch driving licence not accepted);
* a residence permit issued by the IND;
* a Dutch refugee passport
* a Dutch aliens passport

If you do not start your business at your home address but at a location you have e.g. rented, you will also be requested to show the lease to confirm the business address.

Once the registration has been completed, you will be given a unique eight-figure registration number. This KvK number should be referred to on all your outgoing mail. Free of charge, you will receive an extract of your registration, a KvK-uittreksel'(excerpt).

Who can register the enterprise

When an enterprise is registered at the Chamber of Commerce, it is of the utmost importance that the registration forms which are submitted have been signed by the right person. Depending on the legal form of the enterprise, the forms can be registered in the Trade Register by:

* the owner of the one-man business (registration of a one-man business),
* the partners (registration of a general partnership, VOF, and a professional partnership, maatschap')
* or the general partners (registration of a limited partnership, CV')
* If the enterprise is a legal person, a BV, the civil-law notary will usually see to the registration formalities.

The persons who should register the enterprise and sign the registration forms can also be held responsible in the event an enterprise is not registered.

In special circumstances other persons may be authorized and/or obliged to see to the registration of an enterprise. The Chamber of Commerce can advise you on these circumstances.

Registration forms

The registration forms can be downloaded from the Chamber of Commerce website. As a statutory requirement, all forms are in Dutch and have to be completed in Dutch. Translations in English of forms 6, 11 and 13 are available to assist you while filling in the Dutch form to be handed in.
Registration is not free of charge. When you register a business, a fee will be due for the calendar year the enterprise is registered in. After that initial year, an annual fee will be charged in the first quarter of each year. The total sum of this contribution depends on the legal form.

After registration

Once the enterprise has been registered, it is the owner or partner's responsibility to keep the information up-to-date. With a BV the manager authorised to act on behalf of the BV is responsible.

Permits and Licences

Most business activities can be performed without any permits or licences, but for some activities, like catering business, transport or taxi firm, you do need a licence. And an environmental permit may be required if your products or business operations negatively affect the environment. Permits and licences can be applied for at the municipality or at the provincial authorities.

Check how you can use your degree or diploma for your business in the Netherlands. International Credential Evaluation:

Some sectors require registration with an industry board or a product board. Registration is a statutory requirement, based on the Act on Business Organisations. An industry board is a kind of interest group for a specific sector. The same applies to a product board, which includes all enterprises in a production chain, from producers of raw material to manufacturers of end products.

Termination / dissolution of the enterprise

When transferring or selling your company, you will have to comply with a number of rules and regulations. You should also enter information about the sale into the Trade Register and reach a settlement with the Tax and Customs Administration. A business transfer within the family involves several other tax aspects.

Expatica will publish Becoming a self-employed entrepreneur the Netherlands (part 1) on Sunday 27 February.

Chambers of Commerce
The Dutch Chambers of Commerce provide information on starting a business, legal forms, registration in the trade register, international trade etc. We have accumulated knowledge, contacts and partnerships, which makes it the essential reference point for every firm doing or seeking to do business.

Drop by for specific information
Apart from general information, the Chambers of Commerce will be glad to provide you with further details regarding your specific position: either at the start of your business or while running it.

If you are located and/or interested in the Region Amsterdam:
Do call 020-5314684 for a consultation with one of our specialists of the Bedrijfsvoorlichting department.