How Much Does an Irrevocable Trust Cost?

An irrevocable trust is an estate planning arrangement that cannot be changed or altered once set up.  It can help an individual avoid paying for estate and gift taxes in the future by removing property from your possession.

“Lawyer” (CC BY 2.0) by Wesley Fryer

How much does an irrevocable trust cost to set up?

On average, the complete process of setting up an irrevocable trust could run anywhere from as little as $1,000 to as much as $7,000 for a complex setup.

According to Lodmell.com, the cost of setting up an irrevocable trust can run anywhere from $2,500 to $7,500.

Dummies.com states that an irrevocable living trust typically costs $1,000 to $3,000 per individual.

A Forbes.com report provides an idea of how much an irrevocable trust will cost to get a lawyer for estate planning purposes.  According to a lawyer connected with a company that sells software for estate lawyers, an attorney employed to work on a will and life insurance may get the whole package for a lump sum price, which can be $1,200 to $2,000, and, in some cases, up to $4,000.  A lawyer hired to assess self-prepared documents may finish the job in two hours and will charge around $300 an hour.

Factors that affect the price

Estate

The cost of preparing an irrevocable trust is influenced by the size of the estate and the complexity involved in drafting the document.  In cases when there are too many investments, more services may need to be performed, which then increases the cost.

Lawyer charges

Setting up an irrevocable trust is in itself an expensive undertaking.  According to Investopedia, a traditional irrevocable trust will likely cost at least a few thousand dollars and much higher.

Fees

Having a lawyer draft an irrevocable trust involves a range of services that are conducted for a fee.  While legal costs vary from one location to another, many irrevocable trusts can cost $500 to several thousand dollars. The charges may increase with the addition of more legal services, such as with additional research and assets to trace.

Irrevocable trust overview

When setting up an irrevocable trust, the three main participants are the settlor or grantor (creator of the trust), the beneficiary/beneficiaries (recipients of the trust and any distributions the trust yields), and the trustee (the entity who administers and operates the trust, which may be a bank, an attorney, or other entity established for this purpose).

The trust is established by a trust agreement, which is a written document that details the relationships of the participants and illustrates how the property indicated in the trust will be managed and distributed.  The trust agreement is typically prepared by an attorney and executed in accordance with state law.

What are the extra costs?

Transfer fees and filing fees are extra expenses often required when preparing an irrevocable trust.  These fees can be about $30 to $100.

There may also be charges and legal fees when changing names on investment accounts and other assets as well as on insurance policies.

Transfer fees can cost $20 to $100 depending on the transaction.  Apart from the initial fees to set up the irrevocable trust, there may be regular fees owed to the trustee for the management of assets as well as other expenses such as accounting costs related to tax returns.

Other options to consider

Revocable trust – you still have control over the assets and changes can be made at any time.  This type is, however, responsible for estate taxes.

Dynasty trust – rather than leaving your estate and assets to your children or spouse, you can skip a generation and leave it to someone else in the distant future.

Qualified personal residence trust – since the value of your home can rise and fall, this type of trust allows the terms and conditions of your trust to fluctuate with the market price of your home rather than being a fixed amount.

Tips to know:

Properties and assets declared in an irrevocable trust are not included in the grantor’s estate, which means he does not need to pay for estate taxes.

Although there are some exceptions, an irrevocable trust can provide protection from creditors.  The reason is that the grantor is no longer authorized to manage the assets stated in the irrevocable trust.

An irrevocable trust doesn’t always make sense.  Attorney Suzanne Sayward explains five reasons why you shouldn’t create one.

How can I save money?

Shop around to obtain comparative quotes from various service providers and learn about the rates involved in setting up an irrevocable trust.  The prices in the quotations often depend on location and the reputation of the law firm or entity scheduled to handle the procedure.  If you do not know where to look for a lawyer, consider free directories such as LegalMatch.com.

Ask about the lawyer’s hourly rates.  Some charge $300 an hour for their services while others demand $1,000 for each hour they spend on your case. Come up with a list of lawyers offering reasonable rates and have a discussion with each of them before making a decision.

Consider doing it on your own.  There are software packages or companies online that can help you create one for as little as $100 to $500.

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How Much Does an Irrigation Well Cost?

An irrigation well is an alternative way to water your lawn without having to rely on the city water supply.

These wells can help lower your water costs, increases your property value and it’s great for the environment since groundwater is considered a renewable resource.

“Time For A Drink” (CC BY 2.0) by  DJ-Dwayne [Returning in 2015/16]

How much does it cost to drill a well for irrigation?

Depending on the company, how much water you want, the depth of the well, the pressure of the water and the geographical location, a professional install can vary anywhere from as little as $3,500 to as much as $11,000+ for a household irrigation well, including the pump.   If the irrigation well was being installed on a farm, the costs could be much more since it will be much larger than a residential setup and will require larger equipment.  With the average well 100 to 1,500 deep, it can cost an average of $80 to $100 per foot, depending on the factors we mentioned.

According to Wellwaterconnection.com, the cost of installing an irrigation well can range anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000, but the average customer can save between $1,000 and $3,000 a year on water/sewage expenses resulting from using irrigation wells instead of relying on regular water supply.

At Bobvila.com, an irrigation well, according to one homeowner who installed one, paid can $3,000 to drill it.

AGweb.com says the costs will depend on a variety of factors and sand-and-gravel wells can run 100 to 300 feet deep, while deep bedrock wells can run from 500 to 1,500 feet deep.  Costs, on average, can be in the $50,000 to $75,000 range, which normally includes the pump.

Overview

Creating an irrigation well involves a process similar to creating a well for drinking purposes, with the exception that the water is directed through a sprinkler system instead of being pumped into the home.  Irrigation wells can either be shallow or artisan.  A shallow well uses groundwater while an artisan well refers to a system involving a deep well drilled into a bedrock.

When installed, you won’t be that noticeable in the average yard since it can be hidden behind rocks or landscaping.  In most cases, an 18-inch capped pipe will extend from the ground and will be away from the home.

What are the extra costs?

Aside from well drilling costs, additional expenses may include related work such as digging trenches to install electrical cabling.

Setting up a well also requires necessary permits from your local city and a licensed contractor can help you with this process.  In most cases, a groundwater permit needs to be acquired before using water from a well.  Some states require that an application for water use needs to be filed together with a map of the proposed location to be developed before the job can even start.  A landowner’s bond and application fee are also required in some states.

Conduct a water analysis at least once a year to have it checked for bacteriological quality, and the water should also be checked for chemical quality every five years.  Water quality changes, if they were to appear, may indicate system problems such as defective casing and/or contaminated aquifers.  These tests, if you were to hire a professional, could be a few hundred dollars.

Tips to know:

A properly installed irrigation well should produce 10 gallons of water per minute for two hours each day.

Some areas may have certain restrictions in regard to installing an irrigation well.  Always refer to the state regulations before calling a contractor.

Estimating the daily watering needs to ensure that appropriate quantities of water are coming in.

A good irrigation well, as long as installed and maintained properly, can last up to 40 years.

How can I save money?

Consider installing hose bibs and hooking them up to your irrigation well.  This can help you save a considerable amount of money on water to perform activities like watering your lawn or washing your car.

If possible, the well should be located not too far from your house.  The farther your irrigation well is from your house, the higher the costs that will be due to the materials required.

With any big project such as this, always get as many bids as you can.  If you don’t know where to begin, consider using HomeAdvisor.com.  Here, you simply explain your job and licensed, local contractors will contact you with a free estimate.

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How Much Does Broccoli Cost?

Botanically, broccoli is a vegetable belonging to the cabbage group, which is communally known as the cruciferous vegetable.

The broccoli head, often used as a vegetable, is rich in nutrients that include vitamins C and A, folic acid, calcium, and fiber.  In addition, it provides protective components that protect you from diseases.

Broccoli is usually cooked or steamed, but there are also people who prefer to eat it raw.

“Broccoli” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  robnguyen01

How much does broccoli cost?

Fresh broccoli can be priced by the “head” or it can be purchased by the pound.  On average, the price can vary anywhere from as little as $1 to $4 per pound. The cost of broccoli will depend on the variety, where you live, the time of year and where you purchase it from.

For instance, loose broccoli typically sells for $1.25 to $3 per head/bunch (or pound) while organic broccoli can cost upwards of $4.

Florets, which are the tiny pieces of broccoli that are usually frozen, can retail for $1 to $4 per bag.  At Walmart, for instance, a 14-ounce bag of its store-branded broccoli florets retails for a pinch more than $1.

According to this Chow.com forum thread, most members claimed they had paid anywhere from $1 to $4 per pound for their broccoli.

This USDA report, published in 2013, said the average price of florets were $2.57 per pound, heads were $1.64 per pound and frozen broccoli was $1.87 per pound.

The different varieties of broccoli

The large-headed variety produces several clustered florets, many of which generate smaller side shoots after the main head is harvested.

The sprouting varieties grow thick and produce many small heads and best suit the climate in fall to spring.

The Romanesco types produce large and gracefully twirled heads with pointed spirals.  Because of this, they require plenty of space, good quality soil, and favorable growing conditions.

Broccoli raab, which is closely related to the turnips, is known for its strong flavor and is most popular among Asians and Italians.  It is usually grown for its young flower buds.

What are the extra costs?

Depending on how you cook your broccoli, there may be other items you need.  For example, many people put butter and/or seasonings on the broccoli after it has been cooked or steamed.  Some may also melt cheese on the top.  If you eat your broccoli raw, you may prefer to dip it in a vegetable dip or even in ranch dressing.

Tips to know:

If you buy organic broccoli, make sure to clean the florets well before cooking or steaming them because there may be some bugs that have burrowed themselves into the florets.  One way of getting rid of these bugs is by soaking the broccoli in salt water before cooking or steaming.  The occurrence of bugs and insects usually happens since organic foods are not treated with pesticides.

Broccoli tastes sweetest when it matures.

If you are growing broccoli in your backyard, know that leaf-eating caterpillars love to feast on broccoli leaves; however, you can prevent this problem by growing them under row covers.  Broccoli will grow best in a 6.0 to 7.0 pH soil.

When steaming or cooking broccoli, make sure you do not overcook it.  It is best eaten after being cooked until it is only slightly firm.

Broccoli has a shelf life of seven to 14 days, depending on your date of purchase.  You can tell when broccoli is going bad when the bright green color starts turning yellow.

Although its calcium content is less than what a glass of milk provides, broccoli is still the suitable source of calcium for those who do not drink milk.

National broccoli day is on March 22, a day sparking a “go green” celebration.

Broccoli nutrition facts

In one cup of broccoli, there are 31 calories and six grams of carbohydrates.  Refer to the image below to see other nutritional facts.

How can I save money?

Pay attention to the special promotions that some stores offer.  Many stores often have sale prices from time to time, usually during the peak seasons.

Check your local farmers markets.  You should be able to find some fresh broccoli for even cheaper than you do in the store.  Plus, it will taste much fresher since it’s coming straight from the farm.  The FoodCoop.com, for example, lists the prices of local farmers markets and the corresponding prices.  According to the prices at the time of this publishing, the cost of organic California broccoli was $3.99 per bunch, while local broccoli was $2.43 per pound.

If you eat broccoli on a regular basis, you should think about growing it in your garden.  This will be cheaper, very easy to grow and more convenient.

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How Much Does Dry Cleaning Cost?

Dry cleaning is a process of cleaning clothes and other fabrics without using a water-based cleaning solvent.  This method is usually used on materials that are too delicate to be washed in a conventional washing machine.

It is very common for certain materials to become damaged in a traditional washing machine as they can stretch out, shrink or fade in color.  They can also take on the colors of others items washed with them.

For this reason, dry cleaning is suggested in many articles of clothing.

“Dry cleaning” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by sfllaw

How much does dry cleaning cost?

With most dry cleaning services, the dry cleaning prices are going to vary because the cost really depends on what needs to be dry cleaned and where you live.  For instance, a bed comforter is going to cost a lot more than a shirt due to the size.  To give you a good idea of what certain items are going to cost you, take a glance at the table below for ballpark estimates:

The Classic Drycleaners, with multiple locations located in Pennsylvania, lists its prices on its website.  A shirt on a hanger, for example, will cost $2.70, whereas a tuxedo shirt will cost $3.46.

Pilgrim Cleaners, a popular franchise with more than 20 locations, charges close to $10 for pants and about $3.30 for a shirt.  Total Care Cleaners compared the costs of popular dry cleaning companies, showing you what each company charged.

Dry cleaning overview

With dry cleaning, the process begins with the pre-treatment of stains and dirt using a specific cleaning agent.  Then, the garments are loaded into a machine to remove the embedded dirt.  Once the dirt is removed, the clothes are drained using a centrifugal force until no residual solvent odor can be traced.

Depending on the dry cleaning company, services usually provide a full service where the entire garment is cleaned and pressed.

Once cleaned, the garments will be hung and placed in a plastic bag covering to protect them from any outside elements in transportation.

The time it will take for dry cleaning will depend on the cleaner doing the work and if they do it in house or it’s outsourced.  Generally, it’s best to give the dry cleaners two to three days, but if they were able to do it in house, a 24-hour option may be available for a surcharge.

What are the extra costs?

Some dry cleaning companies offer a VIP service, for example, where customers can take advantage of a clothes bag with each pickup and delivery service.  Rather than the temporary plastic covering, the clothes bag will be thicker, tougher and will usually have a zipper to fully enclose the garments.  These VIP services, if available, will often be billed monthly.

Dry cleaners may charge extra for oversized shirts.

Many cleaners can deliver and/or pick up your items for a small fee.  As long as your location is within 10 to 15 miles, it shouldn’t cost more than $20.

Some cleaners may charge an additional fee for different materials such as silk, fur, special knits, pleats, gowns, designer items, cashmere and unique items.

Upcharges may also apply for excessive animal hair removal, top brand clothing that requires special handling and/or removing buttons if necessary.

Tips to know:

Most dry cleaning facilities in the same area use a common contractor, which is usually owned and operated by a few companies.  This is the primary reason they cannot promise to deliver your items on the same day as you bring them in.  Before dropping your clothes off, ask them how your clothes will be dry cleaned.

Take a picture of your clothing before dropping it off.  You will find that it is very hard to prove damage if the dry cleaner had done it without these pictures.

How can I save money?

Many dry cleaners offer coupons online and even in local mailers.  Check out Groupon or local dry cleaning websites to see if they have any promotions available.

If you plan on going to dry cleaner a few times per month, see if you can take advantage of any recurring customer discounts.

The next time you purchase anything fabric related, look for a tag that doesn’t require dry cleaning.

Consider dry cleaning some items at home with an at-home dry cleaning kit.  These kits, depending on the brand and inclusions, can cost as little as $10 to $25.

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How Much Does Graffiti Removal Cost?

Graffiti has always been a topic of controversy.

While some people view it as a work of art, other people think of it as an eyesore.

Graffiti has always been part of the societal fabric in larger cities.  Some are even considered street art; however, most of the graffiti we see, especially today, do not reflect any aesthetic value at all.  Rather than a work of art, the graffiti is simply scribbles.

The reason many people are against graffiti is that it is usually done on public buildings or private property and is, therefore, considered to be vandalism.

The removal of graffiti is the responsibility of the government if it is a public building or of the property owner if it is a private building or home.  Either way, this service is going to cost you since it can be labor intensive work.

“Graffiti” (CC BY 2.0) by  moonlightbulb

How much does graffiti removal cost?

The costs to remove graffiti will depend on the amount that has to be removed, the surface it’s on, the company you hire and your geographical region.

To hire a professional service to clean up graffiti, it is going to cost anywhere from $1 to $3.50 per square foot.  On top of this, plan on paying a $50 to $200 minimum service charge as well to get the trucks to your location.  If you want to get a quote for your particular job, consider using HomeAdvisor.com for free.  Here, you can explain your job and licensed contractors in your area will contact you with estimates.

The estimates mentioned above should include the removal of the graffiti and the repurchase of damaged signs and/or property if necessary.

If you want to do the job on your own, it is going to cost an average of $0.02 to as much as $0.30 per square foot by the time you factor in the chemicals.  Generally, the only way to get rid of graffiti is to paint over it, and this price will greatly depend on how many coats of paints will be needed. For example, the KRUD KUTTER GR32 retails for $5+.

Members on TheGrimeScene.com talked about what they should charge for removal.  According to most of the responses by contractors, they said the quotes should be in the $1 to $3.50 per square foot.

Graffitihurts.org suggested different methods to get rid of graffiti if you do it yourself.  A paint out, for example, could cost $0.06 per square foot could cost $0.06 per square foot, whereas a sacrificial coating, a detachable protective film that effectively blocks vandalism inks, dyes, and resins from penetrating into the surface, could cost $0.02 to $0.06 per square foot.  A non-sacrificial coating, a chemical resistant paint that allows solvent blends to soften vandalism inks, paints, and dyes, would be much more, averaging $0.25 to $1.25 per square foot.  Lastly, an aliphatic-polyurethane could cost $0.25 to $0.50 per square foot.

What are the extra costs?

If the graffiti is hard to access, a surcharge may be applied, depending on the company policy.

Since some of the graffiti removers involve the use of harmful chemicals, protective gear is highly recommended for those who are doing it on their own.

If the company has to drive outside of its radius, a mileage surcharge may apply.

Tips to know:

Soda blasting is a hundred percent environmentally friendly and cost-effective method of removing graffiti.  It does not contain hazardous chemicals and requires only minimal preparation and clean-up.  SEE: “How much does soda blasting cost?”

How can I save money?

Consider an environmentally sustainable removal agent to get rid of the graffiti.  Its cost is just comparable to a chemical or a paint over.

If you plan on painting over the graffiti, see you have any spare paint around.

The job isn’t as hard as you think.  All you will need will be a pressure washer and sandblaster, two items that can be rented at a local hardware store such as Home Depot.

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How Much Does Property Management Cost?

A property manager or management company will oversee the rental and maintenance aspects of a property and effectively take care of various issues that may arise instead of the owner of the property.

With property management, property owners can save their time and will not need to worry about stressing out over the daily management of the property.

The costs of a property manager will depend on where you live,

How much does property management cost?

Depending on the property management company, you will see two types of fees.  One way can be a certain percentage of the rent while others may charge a flat monthly fee.  Usually, the percentage method tends to be the most popular, with some offering a maximum cap.  On average, prepare to budget 6% to 13% of the property’s value each month for property management.

Before the property management company charges this percentage or flat fee, however, most will charge a leasing fee, a fee charged in order to find a prospective tenant.  This fee typically will be anywhere from 50 to 75 percent of the first month’s rent.

For example, aside from the tenant placement fees, let’s say that your monthly rent is going to be $1,000.  If the company charged 10% for their monthly fees, they would take $100 from your monthly rent.

At Desert Wide, a property management company we had found online, for example, the minimum monthly fee for its property management services is $85 or 8% of the rental amount, whichever is higher.  An additional $495 is also required to pay for each new tenant for advertising, lease-up referral commissions, photo tours, and move-in/move-out home inspections.  An optional charge is the use of Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which costs anywhere from $100 to 3% of the total gross lease amount.

According to Property Management Direct, property management fees can be as low as 8% to 15% of the monthly rent.  Flat monthly property management fees may also be charged instead of a commission-based arrangement.  Charges included are lease setup fee, lease renewal fee, the fee for advertising, maintenance markup fees, and cancellation fees.

Most of the responses on this Zillow.com thread said you should be prepared to spend about 5 to 10 percent of the monthly rent.

Property management overview

A property manager can oversee anywhere from a single unit to hundreds of units, depending on the size of the company.  In most cases, these managers can oversee residential homes, condos, apartments, condos and even commercial spaces.

Property managers will assist with finding a qualified tenant, collecting the rent, taking care of collections, coordinating any repairs and making sure the home stays in working order.

In most cases, a property manager will ask you to sign a one or two-year commitment lease.

What are the extra costs?

To cover minor repair expenses that may arise during the month, most property managers will ask for $250 to $500 to place inside of a reserve fund to cover these repairs.  This way, if a small repair were needed, the company wouldn’t have to contact you every time.  Instead, they could take the money from the fund and perform the repair on their own.  A contact, before you sign it, should specify how large this reserve is and when a property manager should contact you to confirm a repair.

Some managers may charge an additional fee if they have to evict a tenant.

A lease renewal fee, even if the same tenants were staying, may be charged.  In most cases, this will be anywhere from $50 to $150, but again, some property managers won’t charge this fee.

In the case of an empty household, the company may charge a small fee, usually a bit lower than what they would normally charge.  This fee is often a certain percentage of what the monthly rent would usually be.  This is done because the company will still need to monitor your property.

If they have to collect late payments, a small percentage may be applied.

Of course, you will be responsible for all repair fees associated with your rental property.

Tips to know:

Pay close attention to the contract before signing it.  You’re going to want to look at how you’re paying the manager, how the rent is going to be collect and pay extra close attention to the extra fees that can be charged.

How can I save money?

Some companies may offer a small discount if they manage more than one of your properties.

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How Much Does Framing a Jersey Cost?

Framing a jersey, signed or worn by a favorite athlete, is a popular way of preserving the jersey.

Whether you want to do it on your own or hire a professional, it’s going to come at a cost.

“Dodgers Jackie Robinson jersey 42” (CC BY 2.0) by  Mr. Littlehand

How much does it cost to frame a jersey?

On average, framing a jersey can range anywhere from as little as $175 to as much as $550.  It is going to come down to the type of frame, the size of the frame, if any customizations are going to be made, and the company framing the jersey.

At Michael’s, a popular arts and crafts retailer that offers customized framing, had told us the prices could be anywhere from $400 to more than $600 based on the factors we had mentioned and if we had a coupon.

A member on this forum thread at BlowoutForums.com said he had paid $400 to have a jersey framed at Hobby Lobby.  Another member said he had paid about $300 for his, while another member paid $200 for an online framer with free shipping.

Factors that affect the price

Style

Jersey framing, just like a basic framing job, can be done in various styles and sizes including a special UV-protective glass, suede, outline matting and/or Plexiglass frame.  A basic framing can include a plain jersey framing, with one or two photos on a regular frame or even with the team colors on the matting.  The more expensive options may include a suede matting, mahogany frame, UV- protective glass and a team logo patch.  As with anything, the higher the quality, the more it can cost.

Add-ons

The overall price of jersey framing is also influenced by the type of add-ons chosen as mentioned in the first point.  Adding a full plate and a photograph, for example, can add $60 to the basic frame.  Also, opting for a mahogany frame instead of a standard frame can add another $100 to the estimate.

Customizations

Getting the jersey customized with a team logo or a team font can also add to the cost due to the added designs tailored to a specific team.  Other customizations that can increase the price include matting using client-specified colors and molding.

Framing a jersey overview

Jersey framing is a process that involves precise ironing and pinning inside of a durable frame with a protective plexiglass.  The pinning is done using specially designed stainless steel framing pins that secure the jersey to the matting without damaging or discoloring the jersey.

Depending on the type of framing service chosen, the jersey framing may include a single or double paper matting in the player’s team colors or custom to your liking.  Customizations are also offered such as adding a team logo, adding a nameplate and/or a team font.

Most companies require two to four weeks from the time they receive the jersey for framing and delivery.  The timetable often depends on the location and the order.

What are the extra costs?

Some jersey framing companies offer framing add-ons like UV protective conservation glass ($29), Plexiglass ($20), suede matting ($69 to $79, or $20 per sheet), a mahogany frame upgrade ($99 to $119), full plate ($29), inset photo ($29), inset ticket ($29 per ticket), floating plate ($29), digital photo frame add-on ($100), and/or digital video frame add-on ($200).  These were the average prices quoted from various framing companies found online.

Shipping costs may apply if you were to use an online company.   If so, you should be prepared to spend about $50.

Tips to know:

Before choosing a jersey framing company, always check their portfolio and other past work they have done.  This is to give you a good idea of their framing skills and expertise.  It also doesn’t hurt to check their reviews online.

Try to choose an acid-free matte as a matte that isn’t acid-free can slowly bleed onto the jersey over time.  Also, try to upgrade to a UV protective plexiglass to help prevent the colors and jersey from fading.

Make sure that the jersey framing company uses no damaging adhesives, pins or staples on the jersey when attaching it to the frame.  The jersey must be framed using non-damaging items such as a foam core to ensure that it is preserved well.  Always ask how the framing process work.s

How can I save money?

Compare rates with at least three different framing companies and take note of those that offer reasonable rates.  It also doesn’t hurt to find a framing company that offers free shipping if you were to send it in online.  While you don’t want to focus solely on the price, you will want to look at past examples and see what other people are saying about them online.  A cheaper frame can sacrifice the quality in the future.

Consider framing the jersey yourself using a display case shadow box.  Many stores provide display cases designed for framing jerseys, which can cost about $50 to $200, depending on type, features and company. Pre-made jersey frames are also available at local craft stores such as Michaels and Jo-Anns.

If you want to use a big box retailer, such as Hobby Lobby or Michael’s, always look for a coupon ahead of time as they always have them readily available.

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How Much Does an Exhaust Leak Repair Cost?

The exhaust pipe is something easily recognizable on a vehicle – it is the pipe that sticks out the rear of the car.

This exhaust pipe is responsible for getting rid of exhaust gases that result from the engine running.

If the exhaust pipe is malfunctioning, there will be a few things that will more than likely happen.  First, the car will make loud pops and can just be louder in general.  Second and most importantly, the exhaust from an engine contains carbon monoxide.  If this gas is leaking into your car as a result of a broken exhaust pipe, the results can be deadly.  Because of this, it is vital to find a service provider that can effectively repair a problematic exhaust pipe before the damage worsens and causes further issues.

“Umnitza Twin-Pipe exhaust” (CC BY 2.0) by  kfanciu

How much does it cost to fix an exhaust leak?

To throw in the labor, you should be prepared to spend $125 to $350 for the labor and parts if you were to replace the exhaust pipe only.  The costs will depend on the car you drive, where you live and the geographical location.  However, if the mechanic were able to weld and/or apply a sealant to the leak, then the costs could be as little as $30 to $60.

At Midas, for example, they had quoted $145 to $225 over the phone, dependent upon the factors mentioned, but this quote was for a welding job if it were an option.

A mechanic on JustAnswer.com said you should be prepared to pay $150 to $200 at most for just the pipe; however, if you were to need a catalytic converter and muffler, then the costs could jump to $500+

A forum member on Toyota Nation asked if $200 to $350 was a decent quote for a new flex pipe, and according to the responses, most recommended taking the car into a muffler shop to have them weld a new part on for about $150 to $200.

For the parts alone, exhaust pipe repair kits are going to cost anywhere from as little as $5 to as much as $75.  This will not include the professional labor costs.

At AutoZone, for instance, the parts, depending on the car you drive, can cost $15 to $45.

Exhaust leak overview

The exhaust pipe connects all the parts of the exhaust system, which includes the following: the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, resonator, muffler, and tailpipe.  All the discharges collected by the manifold are routed through the exhaust pipe.  When repairing an exhaust pipe, a mechanic will perform a full exhaust visual inspection, inspecting all of these parts, to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best way to fix it, which can be via a repair or complete replacement.

During the inspection, once the leak has been found, can usually be caused either by a small leak or a crack.  To fix it, a mechanic will either weld the affected area or a sealant may be used.  In some situations, the entire part will be removed and replaced.

The repair, depending on the car you drive, should take anywhere from two to three hours to fix.

What are the extra costs?

If the exhaust pipe isn’t the culprit, then it could be one of the other parts mentioned above, including the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, resonator and/or muffler.  If any of these parts were the culprit, then the costs could be much more than the estimates mentioned above.

How to check for an exhaust leak

How can I save money?

Take your car in as soon as you notice the symptoms mentioned above.  Even if you can’t afford it, it’s so important to stop driving as soon as possible as you’re going to cause more damage in the future, effectively increasing the price quite a bit.  For example, if you were to allow your exhaust to continue to leak, it could damage the intake manifold, another $400 to $650 repair.

If the leak can be welded and the mechanic can do it, then this will always be your cheapest option.  Keep in mind, however, that many dealerships won’t weld parts back together and will only recommend replacing the entire part, so it’s best to talk with a few muffler shops ahead of time.

A lot of mechanics or dealerships will offer coupons on their official website.  See if you can take advantage of any discounts before bringing your car in.

With any car repair, always call around to see what shops quote.  As long as you know for certain the exhaust pipe is the culprit, most shops should be able to offer a ballpark estimate over the phone.

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How Much Does Electric Frosted Glass Cost?

Electric frosted glass, also referred to as smart glass or switchable privacy glass, is a laminated panel made from polycarbonate or glass.

It appears opaque, similar to frosted glass, in its regular state.  When applied with an electrical current, it becomes transparent.

Controlled manually or automatically, electric frosted glass is typically used in many business establishments as well as in homes where privacy is required, such as in a bedroom and bathroom.

“Frosted Glass” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  tylanarocks

How much does an electric frosted glass window cost?

According to many reports online, the costs of electric frosted glass can be around $200 to $300 per square feet.  Since the technology is rather new, the costs greatly vary.

At Ssidisplays.com, for example, a sample of switchable electric glass costs $250.  The sample glass is approximately the size of a sheet of paper and is equipped with the finished electric glass and switched cord ready for 110 volts. The company sells electric glass by the square foot and produces any specified custom size.

According to ZDNet.com, smart glass installation costs can be double or triple the cost of high-performance static glass, citing a Pike Research report.  The article adds that these glass varieties can represent 10 to 20 percent of overall constructions costs for a specific project, rendering the extra expense a highly substantial one.

A report from the SFgate.com states that the cost of smart glass for commercial buildings can reach up to 50 percent more than standard glass.  For residential uses, the cost can double the price of regular glass.

Factors that affect the price

Size

Switchable glass manufacturers offer a range of sizes, with some measuring up to 3m (118”).  Standard panel widths can be 985 mm (38.8”) / 1205mm (47.4”) while custom sizes can be as much as 2405 x 2000 mm (94.7” x 78.7”).  The bigger the size of the glass, the higher its cost will be.

Features

Some high-end switchable glass manufacturers make high definition rear projection screens to showcase television images and videos if needed.  Most of the time, only corporations would need this.

Thickness

Electric frosted glass products come with different thickness options. Some makers manufacture tempered glass in the following thickness choices: 4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm and 15 mm.  There are also fire-rated options.  Oftentimes, the thicker the glass, the more it costs.

Type

Frosted glass can come in various types: sandblasted, acid-etched and spray-frosted.  Sandblasted produces more variety of results but costs more.  Acid-etched glass is an affordable but durable alternative, making it a popular choice in construction and design.  A spray-frosted glass is the least expensive type and can be done at home through spray coating, which makes it a less durable selection.

Electric frosted glass overview

Electric frosted glass comes in different models and generally functions similarly.  In its frosted mode, the glass acts as an electronic blind that ensures privacy and security for any window or partition.  Switchable glass products can come in various thickness options and are equipped with a mechanism that lets them transform from clear to frosted through manual means or by using a remote control or any other control device.  The more sophisticated models feature a high definition projection screen.

Manufacturers create switchable smart glass with any size, with two standard widths 985 mm (38.8”) and 1205 mm (47.4”) and other varieties having larger dimensions and custom shapes.  Bigger switchable glass can also be made using multiple panels attached together to form glazed partitions.

What are the extra costs?

Electric frosted glass can be installed by experienced contractors with a background on installing these specially designed glass types.  The rates will depend on whether the contractor will work on a fixed cost or on an hourly basis.  It is recommended, though, that contractors communicate with the representatives of the smart glass maker to ensure proper installation.  To find a contractor in your area, consider using HomeAdvisor.com to have locally licensed contractors contact you with quotes.

Tips to know:

Electric smart glass can repel up to 95 percent of the solar heat in its opaque mode.  Electric frosted glass can save users from having to spend money on window blinds or awnings.

Always choose a certified, licensed and insured installer to work with electric frosted glass.

Some manufacturers offer a 5-year warranty against electrical failures, material delamination and workmanship of the electric frosted glass panels they provide.  They may opt to choose either option to replace panels at their cost or to credit a refund to the customer.

How can I save money?

Some manufacturers offer a kit that offers you the opportunity to see and have a feel for the material and its effects before making a purchase.  These sample kits can include a sample electric frosted glass, a power supply, and a remote control.  Customers who proceed with making more orders are credited 50% to 100% of the sample kit cost towards future orders.

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How Much Does a Prosthetic Leg Cost?

A prosthetic leg will be used if a patient has either lost a portion or all of a leg, often caused by diabetes or an injury.  With a range of options, varying from a basic device to computerized versions, the costs will vary.

“Who Dat” (CC BY 2.0) by  Derek Bridges

How much does a prosthetic leg cost?

The average cost of a prosthetic leg will depend on your amputation level and the type of device you’re looking for

If you have health insurance, you will then be responsible for your co-pays and deductibles, and this will greatly depend on your health insurance coverage.  All prosthetic legs should be covered by health insurance in some way or another, but in most cases, the patient will have to meet certain health criteria and only certain legs will be covered.  Always talk with your health insurance company before proceeding and agreeing to any terms with a doctor.

Patients who don’t have health insurance will find themselves paying anywhere from as little as $8,000 for a basic leg to more than $120,000 for an advanced computerized version controlled the muscle movements.   The C-Leg

The Hospital for Special Surgery claims the price of a new prosthetic leg can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000, but even the most expensive prosthetic limb will be built to withstand only three to five years of wear and tear, meaning they will have to constantly be replaced.

This Vice article states the most expensive prosthetic leg available as of today is the Genium X3 knee, the “Maserati” of prosthetics.  This particular prosthetic is waterproof, dustproof, saltwater resistant and will run silently.  The estimated costs, according to the manufacturer, is $120,000.  The same article also claims that the C-Leg, another prosthetic created by the Otto Bock Orthopedic Industry that’s as close to the real human leg, can cost $40,000 to $60,000.

Prosthetic leg overview

After amputation surgery, you will need to meet with a prosthetist, a health professional who specializes in fitting and evaluating patients with prostheses. The time between the surgery and your prosthetist will depend on how quickly your residual limb will fully heal.  Usually, according to the Amputee Coalition, it can begin two to six months after the surgery. During this first session, they will take measurements, create a cast of the stump and a temporary prosthesis will be created to be used for up to a year since the stump will change shape as it heals.

About a year later, when the stump stops growing, you will need to meet with the prosthetist again to discuss the varying permanent options available.  Again, the prosthetist will take another cast and a permanent leg will be created.  Depending on the type, this can take a few weeks to create.

Types of prosthetic legs

Below the knee, known as BK,  is a prosthetic lower leg that’s attached to the intact upper leg.

An above the knee, knwon as an AK, is a prosthetic lower and upper leg, including a prosthetic knee.

What are the extra costs?

Aside from the leg, as priced above, it will need to be customized in order to fit properly.  Each appointment can add up well into the hundreds without insurance.

Physical therapy will help a new patient learn how to use their new prosthetic leg.  Typically costing $100 to $300 per session without insurance, a number of sessions will greatly depend on how well you respond to the leg.  Normally, it can take a few months before you’re able to get back to a daily, normal routine.  Requiring multiple sessions, it’s not unheard of to see the bills reach into the tens of thousands.

A prosthetic leg won’t last forever, and as the HSS above mentioned, the average leg can only withstand wear and tear for three to five years, meaning the leg will either have to be repaired or replaced.  Even during the early stages, socket changes, liners and a different device may be needed to ensure a proper fit.

A leg cover, while optional, can add style to your leg.  A high-quality cover can cost $25 to $45, depending on the size.

How can I save money?

There are non-profit organizations out there that may be able to help with financial assistance if you were unable to afford one.

eBay has quite a few listings you may want to browse through to see if any gently used legs may work for your situation.  If you’re able to find one that could potentially fit, this could save you thousands of dollars.

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