How Much Does it Cost to Lift a House?

Lifting a house is a very common procedure done in order to avoid flood damage, add a basement, fix the foundation, add head space or even move a home from one place to another.

“Lifted house” (CC BY 2.0) by Zanastardust

How much does it cost to lift a house?

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from as little as $20,000 to more than $100,000+  Since there are so many factors involved, as mentioned below, the range can be quite large.  According to our research, a lot of costs may be involved, and since every situation is unique, the prices will vary, but with our table below, it can hopefully help you understand what you may be paying for this type of job.

Geekazon.com did a great job showing us what they had to essentially raise their house.  In the end, the total costs easily surpassed the $130,000 range, but according to the pricing, it did include a new home addition.

An experienced contractor on Angie’s List answered this very question and said jacking/moving a home can be in the $30,000 to $40,000 range, while a new basement could cost around $40,000 to $50,000; however, he did see homes cost as much as $70,000.

Factors affecting the price

The size of the home

The larger the home is, the more it will weigh; because of this, the process can be more complex, adding to the overall price.

The number of floors

Like the size of the home, the more floors a home has, the more weight that needs to be raised.  More weight will equal heavier machinery.

Damage

If your home just flooded, for example, then there’s a good chance there will be damage done to the foundation.  Whether it’s on the foundation or within the drywall, this can make the process a bit more complicated since lifting the home can be deemed more fragile.  Depending on the company lifting the home, they may require you resolve these issues before they even consider the job.

Foundation status

If you’re lifting the home due to a damaged foundation, then it could be due to bad soil or even earth movement.  If you’re not moving your home to another location, then the company will need to use concrete piers to create a new foundation, ultimately increasing the costs.  But, if your foundation is in great shape, then you won’t have to worry about this, saving you a good $5,000 or so.

The time

With any professional contractor-based job, time is money.  If you need this done as an emergency, this it could cost much more than if you were to wait during the contractor’s slower seasons.

Permits

Every geographical location will have varying fees when it comes to the permits.  Since every city will require a permit for this job, it’s best to budget at least $2,000 to $5,000 or more.

Labor

All contractors will have varying labor fees, and since no one will work for free, each contractor will have their own rates.  While there is no set standard labor costs, the best route to find out the costs in your area is simply by getting multiple quotes.

Architect

With some projects, according to those who have had the job done before, homeowners have stated an architect may be necessary to create specially designed plans.  If one were required, this could be an additional $3,000 to $6,000.

What are the extra costs?

Chances are your landscaping will need some work with the job is complete.  Depending on the circumstances, it’s best to, at a minimum, plant grass and even replace plants/shrubs that were there in the first place.

As noted in our table above, you may find yourself repairing many cracks on the drywall after the home has been successfully lifted.

Contractors don’t recommend living in the home while it’s being lifted, so you may have to budget for accommodation purposes.

Tips to know

With this type of job, you’re going to need the help of an architectural/structural engineering firm before you even consider a contractor to make sure this is the best course of action.  Depending on the job, a specialty company may be able to slide a home onto a new foundation or jack it up while on steel beams while a basement is dug out beneath.  Robert at OldHouseCrazy.com, showed an effective DIY method, for example.

When hiring professionals, it’s best to know a few things before hiring.  First off, you will want to know how many homes they have lifted and/or moved in the past.  You never want to be the first home they mess with.  Secondly, ask for references to see what other homeowners say about their workmanship. Ask them how long it took, how they communicated and what they didn’t like about the process.  Lastly, make sure the company has liability insurance and know their limits.  A good company will have coverage of $200,000 at a minimum.

How can I save money?

In most cases, you’re better off adding an addition if you have the room rather than raising the home to add a basement.  Unless you’re raising your home due to flooding or foundation issues, it just doesn’t make sense financially to do so.

Finding quotes in your area can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be if you use HomeAdvisor.com.  Here, you simply describe your job and multiple licensed contractors in your area will contact you with ballpark quotes.

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How Much Does a Siberian Husky Cost?

The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized dog that originated from the country of Siberia.  Huskies are known for their thick fur coat, triangular ears and ability to withstand extremely cold climates.

Initially used as a sled dog, this breed was imported into Alaska during the Gold Rush, and as of today, Siberian Huskies are known as show dogs and family pets.

“Siberian Husky Puppies 2013-05-25” (CC BY 2.0) by  Jeffrey Beall

How much does a Siberian husky cost?

The price of a Siberian Husky will depend on the age, the breeder, color, quality, health, its parents/bloodline and where you’re adopting one.  On average, a Siberian Husky can cost anywhere from $450 to as much as $1,500.  Purebred Huskies with the appropriate paperwork and a great bloodline will cost more than a dog with no paperwork at all.  A purebred Husky from an AKC registered breeder, if you’re able to find one with all of the appropriate paperwork, is usually going to cost $1,200 to $1,600.

Older dogs over two years old can often be found at various shelters and rescues and cost as little as $100.

The website HuskyColors.com claims that a Husky can cost $400 to $800 in a pet store.  $300 or so should be able to get you a dog from what is known as a “backyard breeder.”

For example, at the time of this writing, PuppyFind.com has more than 1,300 listings, with prices ranging anywhere from $500 to $1,300.  Some breeders had listings for more than $2,000, which seemed to be much more than the industry average.

We also checked the official marketplace of the AKC and had found the prices ranged anywhere from $1,000 to $1,500.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

Depending on the breeder, most Siberian husky puppies will come with a health guarantee in writing, health registration paperwork, up to date vaccinations, a deworming, microchip and/or spay/neutering.  If registered with the AKC, the appropriate paperwork should come with it as well.  From what we found, AKC breeders should also include an eye checkup by a vet and should be OFA certified.

Ideally, a breeder will allow you to take your puppies home at about eight to 10 weeks.  However, before you’re able to take them home, they will require you place a deposit to secure your puppy, which is usually around $100 to $200 or a certain percentage of the price.  This deposit will then be applied to the adoption fee when you pick up your puppy.

What are the extra costs?

Due to the energy levels of these dogs, obedience classes are highly recommended.  Classes can often start at $75 and go up from there depending on the geographical location and the number of classes taken.

Since these dogs shed a lot, it’s highly recommended that they are either groomed at home or through a professional at least once per month.  Grooming sessions often cost about $100 or so, depending on your geographical location.

Shipping the dog through an airline can cost upwards of $200 to $400 depending on the number of miles that have to be traversed.

Don’t forget the recurring costs such as food, toys, accessories and routine/unexpected vet visits.  A healthy dog, most of the time, should cost $600 to $900 per year, but much more if your dog were to come down with an unexpected illness or surgery.  Petsittersireland.com recommends a real meat diet as cheaper foods filled with carbohydrate fillers can often provide little nutritional value and can even sometimes cause allergies.

Tips to know:

The male will stand 21 to 24 inches tall and weigh 45 to 60 pounds, while females will be slightly smaller, measuring 20 to 22 inches tall and weighing 35 to 50 pounds.

If healthy, the average Husky can live 12 to 14 years.

The coat will consist of two layers, one of which will be the downy undercoat designed for warmth and the outer coat will be designed to keep the undercoat waterproof.  Depending on the climate, the Husky will molt of its coat at least once per year, wearing their loose fur for a few weeks.

These dogs can often be very destructive while bored.  If you do not have the proper time to take care of this dog, let it be known that they can get rather destructive while trying to keep themselves occupied.

These dogs can look like fierce dogs, but don’t let their looks fool you.  These dogs actually can be timid, fairly friendly and love just about anyone who enters a room.  If you want a guard dog, you will probably want to think about another breed.

Huskies are known to love just about any person that walks through the door.  They are intelligent, very outgoing, and love to run around.  They are also known to be a great dog for those who have allergic reactions since they tend to keep clean compared to other dogs.

If you’re able to adopt the puppy in person, pay close attention to the dog’s ears.  Thick, dark, dry or crumbly wax can indicate the signs of ear mites or a poor sign of breeding.  Also, pay close attention to the coat to see if there are any fleas, a dark black spot.

These dogs need a lot of exercise and will require a lot of room to roam throughout the day.  Ideally, it’s best to allow them to run one to two hours per day.

How can I save money?

Consider checking local shelters and rescues as most will have some since it’s considered a popular breed.  It’s often best to adopt from a local shelter, even if you can’t find a Husky.  Adopting helps your local shelters, offers a dog a forever home and doesn’t put money in the pockets of unethical breeders.  Even if you do find a reputable breeder who seems like they are in it for the love, more often than not, the money influences them.  Don’t let them offer a sob story of how much it costs to raise one or why you shouldn’t adopt.  Adopting always will outweigh spending thousands on a “pure breed.”

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How Much Does a Siamese Cat Cost?

The Siamese cat, also known as the Siam or Thai cat, is one the most recognized breeds of all Oriental cats.  Originating from Thailand, this rare breed has quickly become one of the most popular breeds in all of America and Europe today.   Siamese cats are known for their distinctive markings and usually have a slim and stylish body.

“IMG_5385” (CC BY 2.0) by  NH53

How much does a Siamese cat cost?

The price of a Siamese cat will depend on the age, the breeder, quality, its bloodline and inclusions.  On average, it can cost anywhere from $100 to as much as $600.  TCA/CFA registered cats — a type of certification that states the cat in question is the quality of a show cat — for example, can often be on the higher end, costing upwards of $600 per kitten.   Your older cats and even kittens, often found at a local shelter, can almost always be adopted for less than $150.

The Siamese Cat Rescue Center located in Virginia, for instance, allows those who meet their guidelines to adopt a Siamese cat for $125.  This will not include the application fee or health certificates.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

Reputable breeders should include a health certificate, health guarantee, up to date vaccinations (panleucopaenia, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and rabies) and a travel crate if it’s going to be shipped.  Some breeders may also include the microchipping, spay/neutering and/or a starter kit with some valuable supplies.  A breeder should let you visit their premises and won’t let you adopt the kitten until they reach eight weeks old.  This will allow the kitten to become well socialized and receive the much-needed nutrients from their mother.

Pedigree kittens, if you’re adopting one, should come with the proper registration and pedigree certificates.  They should also be sold with an insurance policy to protect your investment.

Types of Siamese cats

Seal Point

This is the “original” color most people think of when they envision a Siamese cat.  These cats will have a very dark, almost black seal brown point, and the face, ears, tail, paws and nose will all be the same color.  When they are young, they will be paler in color and will darken as they age.

Chocolate Point

The Chocolate Point will have a lot more white than other varieties, but their face, ears, tails and paws will be a chocolate-like color.  While others will darken as they grow old, the Chocolate Point, even though it has the word “chocolate” in it, will still have a lot of white on its fur.

Blue Point

Related to the Seal Point mentioned above, the Blue Point will have a deep slate grey-blue-like body with silvery-blue points on its face, ears, tail, paws, nose and paw pads.

Lilac Point

A Lilac Point will have a bit of Russian Blue in their genes and will be the palest of all varieties.  It will have lighter pink-gray color from their ears to the paws.  The eyes will be a pale blue color.

Lynx Point

Also referred to as a Tabby Point, these cats are known to be related to the wild lynx.  This cat will have well-defined stripes, an outlined ear color the same as the stripes on the face, along with legs and a tail marker with rings of colors extended up to the tip of the tail.

Flame Point

These cats have a reddish-gold like point with pale blue eyes.  Their coats will be a creamy white, similar to that of a Seal Point.

Tortie Point

The Tortie Point will have a look that closely resembles a tortoise shell.  Their face, ears, nose, legs, feet and tail will have a spotted combination of either blue, seal or caramel.

What are the extra costs?

If the cat has to be shipped through an airline or via the road, this can be an additional $200 to $400.

Most adoption centers will charge an application fee that can start at $10.

Recurring costs such as the food, cat litter, accessories and vet visits need to be budgeted.  It is best to budget at least $30 to $50 per month for a healthy cat and much more if the cat were to come down with a serious illness/surgery.

Tips to know:

A Siamese cat has a slim, sleek body that can come in a variety of colors, including seal point, lynx point, flame point, blue point, lilac point, snowshoe and chocolate point.  They are known for their almond-shaped eyes and shorter hair, often silkier than other cat breeds.

A male will weigh 11 to 15 pounds, while females will weigh slightly less, usually around eight to 11 pounds.

The average Siamese, as long as healthy, can live 11 to 15 years.

Its temperament is known to be active, agile, clever, sociable, loveable and energetic.

A Siamese cat is known to be very playful and curious.  Make sure you have the time and energy to keep them occupied throughout the day.

Some Siamese cats can do well with children while others will not.  If adopting an older cat, be sure to ask how it interacts with children.

These cats do not do well outdoors.  Since they are an indoor cat only, it is best to keep them inside throughout the day and as much as possible.

The best place to buy a Siamese cat is from a reputable and licensed breeder, and while it may be tempting to adopt from a local pet shop, it can often be hard to know where these cats came from.  It’s hard to see the living conditions, how they were raised and what the owners were like.  A reputable breeder will allow you to see their home, how the cats were raised and even what the parents were like.

If adopting a kitten, avoid a cat with a runny nose, dirty ears or any sign of a cold.

They won’t require much in terms of grooming but may shed occasionally.

Health conditions often seen with this breed may include early onset kidney disease, a weakness to the immune system, megaesophagus and/or eye twitching.  Most purebred often come with an increased in these conditions due to the selective breeding process.

How can I save money?

Consider adopting a cat that is older.  Siamese cats older than two to three years can often cost a lot less than a kitten and are commonly found at local rescue groups and shelters.  It never hurts to check a local Humane Society to see if they have any available for adoption.  Adopting is also a great way to save an older cat’s life instead of spending hundreds of a “designer” cat that comes from a breeder in it for the money.  Even though many breeders say they “justify” their costs, most still make a nice profit; don’t let them fool you with their “it costs so much to raise a cat” theory.

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How Much Does an Indian Ringneck Parrot Cost?

The Indian ringneck parrot, also known as the Rose-ringed parakeet, is a tropical bird that can range in size and color.  Popular as pets, the ringneck parrot can grow up to 16 inches long, with the tail can account for the majority of its length.  These birds are native to Asia and Africa and are known for their ability to show off and even play a few games.

“Indian Ringneck parrot. (Psittacula kram” (Public Domain) by Bernard Spragg

How much does an Indian ringneck parrot cost?

The cost of an Indian ringneck parrot will often depend on the age, gender, the breeder selling it, the species, colors, its health and the geographical location.  On average, the cost can range anywhere from $250 to as much as $1,200 for a rarer species and/or color.  From our research, however, the average blue or green Indian ringneck parrot will cost $175 to $300, with females often costing 20 to 30 percent less than a male.

On a forum thread on ParrotForums.com, forum members claimed they could find ringnecks ranging anywhere from $50 to as much as $1,000.

BirdsNow.com, a popular online bird classified website, had close to 100 postings at the time of this writing.  Here, the classified listings ranged anywhere from as little as $150 for an older nine-year-old bird to as much as $800 for a bright yellow juvenile baby.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

Reputable breeders will often hand feed the babies until they are ready for adoption and will slowly wean them off when you take them home.   They should also come with some sort of health certificate from a licensed vet backed up by a health guarantee.  Depending on the breeder, they may also be DNA tested to confirm the gender, but this isn’t always necessary as the bird can be defined by its colors.

Before you’re able to take the bird home, a breeder will require a deposit, often $100 to $200 or a certain percentage of the sale price.  Upon adopting, you will then have your deposit applied to the adoption cost.

What are the extra costs?

The diet of a ringneck will often include foods such as nuts, seeds, berries and even fruits.  In addition, BirdFarm.com says you can also use pasta and some grains.  Owners are often advised to set aside at least $30 per month to adequately feed each bird.

Rarer species often have to be purchased outside of state lines.  If you do not have the time or resources to pick the bird up, the costs of shipping one can often start at $150 and go up from there depending on how far and how it has to be shipped.

Most cages, to adequately store the bird, can start at $200 and go up from there, depending on the setup you’re looking at.  At a minimum, the cage should be 22 by 24 inches and should be stocked with toys to keep the bird entertained when you’re not around.  This bird loves swings and shiny objects it’s able to chew on throughout the day.  If bored, the bird has been known to resort to chewing the cage or even becoming quite destructive if left outside the cage.

Tips to know:

The male ringneck parrots will have a colored ring around their neck, while the younger birds and females will not have the ring at all.  Some females can have a ring, but it will often be a pale, grayish color.  Both will have larger tails with 12 feathers, and two of the largest tails, which are commonly blue, make up most of the parrot’s size, extending as long as eight inches.  Because of their green colors, they can often be hard to find inside a cage when roosting or even inside a nest.

Common colors found on the market include a shade of yellow, green, blue, albino or a mix between.

Like most parakeets, the Indian ringneck parrot tend to be show-offs, great at playing games and even speaking more than a dozen words.

The average lifespan, as long as its taken care of properly, can be as long as 40 years.

Known for being extremely outgoing and social, this bird is often recommended to those who are first-time bird owners.

Not considerably loud, these birds will do fine in an apartment or condo.

How can I save money?

If possible, try to adopt a bird within traveling distance.  By adopting one locally, you will be able to avoid the shipping charges and can see the bird in person.

Check out Craigslist or a similar classified website to see if an owner is offering a bird along with their supplies.  Oftentimes, when an owner gives up an older bird for adoption, they will sell all of the supplies with the bird as well.

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How Much Does a Ring Cleaning Cost?

Ring cleaning can be done by a professional jeweler in order to restore that beautiful shine it had when you first purchased it.  Over the years, a ring can become quite dull and can have grime build up in the grooves and around the stones such as lotion or shampoo conditioner.

The cost of having a ring cleaned can depend on the size of the ring, the number of diamonds the ring contains, and the company performing the cleaning.

“Cleaning” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Ksayer1

How much does a professional ring cleaning cost?

On average, a professional ring cleaning can cost anywhere from $0 to as much as $20.  Many stores often offer ring cleanings for free as long as the ring was purchased through their store.  Most of the time, according to our research, ring cleanings are going to be free, so it is best to find those who do not charge anything.

For example,  the company Tiffany offers a lifetime cleaning for those who have purchased the ring through them.

Members on Babycenter.com said they paid anywhere from nothing to as much as $20.  It all came down to where you took it and the jeweler you used.

For those who want to clean the ring themselves, ultrasonic cleaning machines can often cost $20 to $150.  For instance, the popular Sonic Wave Ultrasonic Cleaner retails for $30+.  This cleaner uses ultrasonic energy that can help clean the dirt and dust away without harming the ring.  The vibrations created by this machine will shake off any loose dirt, but if you were to go this route, you shouldn’t use a soft gem or pearl as this can often cause damage.

Professional ring cleaning overview

Before the jeweler attempts to clean the ring, they will first inspect the ring underneath a microscope to make sure no stones are loose and are still in good condition.

From there, they will determine if the ring can be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner.  Due to the properties of some stones, such as an emerald or pearl, it won’t be able to go through this type of cleaning process since it may shatter or even fracture.

During the cleaning process, the jeweler will use a specialized washing solvent and will more than likely use a professional cleaner; again, depending on the stones being used.  Lightly brushing the outside of the ring with the solvent and cleaner, the ring will be gently blasted with millions of tiny microscopic bubbles using a high-pressure hose.  If the ring is deemed to “dirty,” then the jeweler may let the ring sit in an acid bath for a few minutes.

What are the extra costs?

If any scratches or problems are noticed, such as a scratched band or diamond/s,  the jeweler may want to fix the ring.  Other common repairs may include replacing the prongs, retipping the prongs or even tightening the stones.

If you are going to purchase a professional cleaning item, detergents are highly recommended.  These detergents can cost anywhere from $5 to as much as $15 per eight-ounce bottle.

Tips to know:

Get into the habit of cleaning your ring every week.  By doing this, you can avoid grimy buildup altogether and keep that new-looking shine.  At home, you can simply use warm water, a bit of dish detergent and a little ammonia to keep a diamond ring clean.  When brushing, always make sure you brush in the direction of the prongs and be careful not to snag the bristle underneath the claw.  If it’s a gem, let it soak in a bowl of warm bowl of soapy water.  If using a cleaner, just make sure it’s non-abrasive and try not to use any harsh chemical cleaners.

Always try to remove your ring when putting lotions and oils on your hand.

Before using a ring cleaner, make sure that you look at the reviews online as well as the ingredients.  Abrasive chemicals can often do a lot of harm.

Pay close attention to your warranty as some companies may void your warranty if you have your ring cleaned elsewhere.

How can I save money?

Consider looking around for jewelry stores that clean rings for free.  For instance, the popular jewelry store Kay Jewelers will often clean a ring for nothing, even if you didn’t purchase it from them.

There are tutorials online that can teach you how to clean a ring properly.  Watching or reading a tutorial is very important so that you do not damage your ring in any way.

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How Much Do Car Rims Cost?

Even though car rims come standard with any car that is purchased, many drivers opt to customize their own to fit their personality and the style of the car.  The cost of rims will vary depending upon the colors, the quality, materials, the size, brand and the company selling them.

“Lambo Heaven.” (CC BY 2.0) by  Damian Morys Photography

How much do car rims cost?

On average, car rims can run anywhere from $90 for a lower-end cheap steel set of rims to as much as $1,000+ for a higher-end racing quality set of rims.  The prices can often be higher than $400 if they are customized or made from a rarer material.  Most of the time, however, you should be able to find a decent aluminum set for $200 or less.  Fancier types, often designed for a sportier car such as Corvette or a Mustang, can often be in the thousands.  We researched some of the most popular finsihes and included the average price inside the table below.

Black car rims, for instance, tend to be the most popular type of rims purchased online.  Rims made from a solid black color can often retail for $80 to as much as $350; again, depending on the factors mentioned above.

Rims designed for older muscle cars can retail for $115 to as much as $700.  These rims can be more expensive since most of these rims have to be specially ordered to fit older makes and models.

Car rim overview

Rims will come in sizes that can range from 15 to 30 inches and widths ranging from three to 16.

Aside from the standard aluminum finish, other popular finishes include black, bronze, chrome, gray, gunmetal, polished, PVD, silver and titanium.

If purchased online, some retailers may include the lug nuts.

What are the extra costs?

Rims often have to be installed by a professional mechanic, and most professionals can charge anywhere from $20 to $40 per wheel.  After the rims have been installed, most will include a tire balance either as part of their installation quote as a separate charge.

If you are going to invest in a higher priced rim, consider getting a lock in order to prevent thieves from taking them.  A good rim lock set should cost $20 to $40.

Due to the weight, some online retailers may charge a shipping fee.

If required, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which measure the air pressure in a vehicle, may be necessary if your car requires.  This sensor, on average, can cost $200 or so.

If lug nuts don’t come with your new set of rims, this can be an additional $30 to $60 for a high-quality set.

Tips to know:

If your car currently has a warranty and the rims have been damaged, consider talking with your local dealer to see if they are covered.  On the other hand, if the rims were damaged due to an accident, check with your insurance company to see if these can be replaced.

If you want to increase the size of your rims, make sure your car can handle the new rims.  More often than not, many find that rims can cause significant damage if the size of the rims are too large.

How can I save money?

If purchasing rims from a local company, try to find one that offers lifetime balancing and repairs.  Many name brand chains, such as Discount Tire, often offer this type of service to their customers.

Check websites such as eBay for used rims.  Purchasing rims used is a great way to save more than 50 percent.  Just make sure the rims have no significant damage and are not made from a cheaper material.

It’s advisable to check outside sources before settling on the local dealer.  From our research, the local dealer can often be 20 to 50 percent more than a local garage or online retailer.  If you have your eyes on a certain set of rims, consider asking a local shop if they would be able to install them if you bring the set in.

If you just want a new look, consider powder coating or painting the rims for a new look.  Powder coating can oftentimes be much cheaper, usually less than $200 per set.  The same can be said about a bent rim.  If you want to replace a rim because it’s bent, consider having it fixed.  Since it’s a simple process, it can cost less than $100 per rim to resolve the issue.

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How Much Does an Ambulance Ride Cost?

An ambulance ride is most often the quickest way to get to the hospital in the case of an injury or serious illness such as a car accident or heart attack.  The cost of an ambulance ride can depend on the company, the miles being driven, the reason you had to ride in one and if insurance is involved.  A basic ambulance ride to a hospital, for example, can cost a lot less than a paramedic unit.

“Ambulance” (CC BY 2.0) by  pasa47

How much does an ambulance ride cost?

On average, an ambulance company will charge anywhere from $350 to as much as $2,000 for a trip without insurance.  We explored multiple cities throughout the United States and included the prices we had found inside the table below.

Even with health insurance, an ambulance ride may not be covered 100 percent.  Refer to your insurance documentation to see exactly what is covered; most of the time, the insurance company will only cover the payment if it were a medical necessity and your life was in danger.  Some insurance policies have a flat fee/co-pay, while others may say you are only responsible for the deductible.

According to this LaTimes.com article, a patient was billed more than $1,538 for her ambulance ride.  This was after the insurance company had paid more than $750.

AberdeenNews.com claims ambulance rides within the area of Aberdeen can vary anywhere from $550 to $1,000, but the most common charge for a ride is around $675.  The least expense trip is one that is deemed as a non-emergency.  On top of the standard fee, companies may also charge $12.50 per mile driven.

A member on Reddit.com said they received a bill for $1,157.  $13 was for the mileage, $80 for the oxygen, $25 for the supplies and $1,000 as the base price.

Ambulance ride overview

In an emergency situation, the ambulance provider will determine which type of truck needs to be dispatched (basic or ALS) depending on the circumstances.  During the ambulance ride, the crew will assess the patient’s medical condition and check vital signs to determine the best course of action.  Basic life support trucks will work with non-threatening injuries, continuing monitoring to a destination, while an advanced life support truck, will be dispatched for life-threatening situations.  An ALS crew can administer medication, perform CPR, insert breathing tubes and perform other procedures.

When you receive a bill from an ambulance service, it should have an itemized bill, showcasing the price for each item.  If you feel that you never had that treatment or you want to dispute the charges, be sure to call up the ambulance company or insurance company to dispute these charges.  If the service doesn’t offer an itemized bill, be sure to ask for one.

Aside from transportation to a hospital, ambulance providers can take a patient to a nursing facility, rehabilitation center, home health agency or hospice center.

What are the extra costs?

If other medical equipment or medication is used during an ambulance ride such as IVs or oxygen, the costs can rise.  Advanced life support, when compared to basic life support, can cost even more.  The Arizona Republic even said blankets and bandages are billable if you were to use them during the ride.

Plan on spending at least $3 to $10 per mile driven if the ambulance has to drive outside of its radius.

If the ambulance has to standby at the hospital and/or a location, it can cost up to $200 per hour.

Tips to know:

Why is an ambulance ride so expensive?  Regardless of how many 911 calls are made in a day, an ambulance service still has to be available for 24 hours per day, staffing crew members and maintaining the vehicles available.  This also doesn’t include the salaries and the fuel being used.

How can I save money?

Many ambulance companies have a payment plan if you can’t afford to pay the payment in full.  If you pay up front in full, most of the time, they will usually offer a discount that is more than 40 percent.  Each company will have its own policy, so be sure to call them and ask before paying the payment in full.

If you cannot afford the bill, talk with your local city as many have plans set up that can help those that meet certain income requirements.

The La Times says you can appeal a bill if you feel the bill seems either too high or improper.

Both private insurance companies and Medicaid will cover an ambulance ride as long as the ride is a necessity and endangers your health.

If it’s avoidable, skip the ambulance and drive to the hospital with a friend or family member. As you can see, the prices can be quite steep.  Even if you don’t have someone to drive you, consider something such as Uber or Lyft.

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How Much Does King Crab Cost?

Known as the true “king” of the Alaskan waters, king crab is known for its meaty legs and claws, but even though it’s the king of the Alaskan waters, it can also be found along the coasts of Russia, South America and Japan.  These crabs are celebrated for its size, tender white meat and every day, fisherman risk their lives bringing home a catch.

“Alaska King Crabs” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  mikecogh

How much does king crab cost per pound?

On average, plan on spending anywhere from $30 to $55+ per pound.  This price will depend on the time of year, the size, where you live and where you’re purchasing it from.  On the east coast, for example, the costs could be much cheaper than someone who lives in the middle of the United States.

At Costco, for example, you can purchase a 10-pound box for around $300, while Sam’s Club sells one-pound packages for about $35 per pound.

ChowTimes.com wrote a guide talking about how you should buy an Alaskan king crab.  According to the article, the offseason price would be around $30 per pound, and with each crab weighing an average of five pounds, your cost could be close to $150.  However, during the AKC season, which was from late February to late March, the prices could drop to as low as $10.

King crab overview

When purchasing king crab, it will be graded in sizes that indicate how many legs will create 10 pounds.  The number 9/12, for example, will mean there will be nine to 12 legs in a 10-pound container.  You may also see other terms, aside from king, such as large, extra large, colossal or even jumbo  While there is no industry standard size, according to CaptainJacksAlaska.com, the size terms used by companies selling jumbo crab legs will be graded by the processors.  These sizes will include 6/9, 9/12, 12/14, 14/17, 16/20, 20/24 and 24/+.

There are three varieties of king crab:  the red king, golden king and blue king, and the name “king” brought all three of these varieties together due to the size.  According to this Fox News article, the most prized is the red king, which can span over five feet and can weigh up to 24 pounds; however, the average weight will be 10 pounds or so.  A close second, according to the article, will be the blue king, which is slightly smaller, but when cooked, it can turn red, often resembling the popular red king crab.  The smallest of the three, the golden king, will be the smallest and will offer the least amount of flavor.

King crab season will kick off on October 15 every year, the time when fishermen are legally allowed to fish.

King crab purchased at local retailers will often be wild caught from a natural sea unless specified and should be fully cooked so you can eat it either raw or cooked.

What are the extra costs?

If purchased online, you may have to pay another $10 to $25 in expedited shipping fees.

Tips to know:

If making a purchase online, some retailers may require a minimum order.  According to our research, we had found many online seafood markets required a three to a five-pound minimum.

Only crab legally caught in Alaska can be labeled “Alaskan king crab.”  If it doesn’t say “Alaskan” on the product, pay close attention to see where the crab was harvested.

How to cook frozen king crab legs

How can I save money?

Buying in bulk at either a local wholesale club or fish market can often bring the costs down by as much as $5 to $10 per pound.

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How Much Does It Cost to Lift a Truck?

A lift kit is designed to improve the style and overall performance of a vehicle.  It will also help raise the height, allowing more room for larger tires for better traction.  Those who usually find themselves riding off-road or needing a higher clearance will often have a lift kit installed.

“Lift Kit” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Luciano Meirelles

How much does a lift kit install cost?

In general, a lift kit, without any professional installation, will cost anywhere from $300 to $2,500, depending on your make and model, the type of kit you’re using, the components included and the height of the lift.  A kit with fewer parts and a lower height, for example, will be a lot less than a kit that needs numerous parts to replace and adds a higher-than-average lift.

Now, when you factor in the professional installation costs, the prices can anywhere in the $500 to $1,400 range; again, depending on the factors mentioned earlier.  When you factor in the cost of the lift and the professional installation, you should be in the $800 to $3,900 ballpark.

According to a few members on F150online.com, one member paid $2,000 for a basic skyjacker lift, while another paid $2,400 for a Fabtech six-inch lift.

On another forum thread at JeepForum.com, a member asked his friend what a lift would cost, and he said it would be $240 for the front, $240 for the rear, $280 for the SYE/driveshaft, $120 for balancing the tires and $75 for the alignment.

Types of lifts

There are a few types of lift kits that are found on the market as indicated below:

Block kit

A block kit is designed for those who want to raise the back of the truck.  These kits will often be straightforward to install and fit in the place where the U-bolts would go.

Body lift kit

A body lift kit will only affect the height of your cabin, keeping the suspension frame in place, allowing more room for larger tires.  While your ground clearance won’t change, you won’t get the extra height in order to protect your vehicle’s undercarriage.  Since there are fewer parts involved when compared to a suspension lift kits, the costs will be much less.

Coil spacers

Coil spacers will be ideal for those who don’t want to mess with the suspension or affect the brakes in any way.  Depending on the coil spacer, some may need shock extensions while others may not, but regardless of which one you choose, the performance shouldn’t be affected.  These coil spacers can install easily and will be able to elevate your vehicle by a few inches.

Leveling kit

A leveling kit will raise the front of the vehicle to level the higher tail end of the truck, eliminating any “rake” your vehicle may have from the company.  This can often be an efficient option.

Strut extensions

Strut extensions are designed for a truck that has a coilover strut at the front, usually found in SUVs.  Essentially, with this type of vehicle, it will require a spacer implemented to create the lift.

Suspension lift kit

These kits, often installed by off-road enthusiasts, will be more expensive than a body lift kit due to the parts and labor involved  With a suspension lift kit, your entire vehicle will raise to a designated height, including the suspension and the frame.   This will create a lot more ground clearance and enables you to install larger tires.

Torsion keys

A torsion key will operate in combination with the leveling kit we already mentioned.  These keys will enable you to install the company torsion sections and replace them with keys that let you lift your car.  Often costlier than other methods, it can be one of the simplest methods when lifting.

Lift kit overview

Most lifts are relatively straightforward.  A professional installer will lift the car up and hold up the frame with a jack stand.  The track bar and sway bar links will be disconnected at the axle and the shocks will be removed.  The axle will then be dropped until the springs come loose and the older coils will be removed, followed by a replacement of the new coils inside the kit.  The axle will be re-seated, the shocks will be bolted on and all loose parts will be reattached.  This process will then be repeated on the front/rear.  Most professionals can do the job in less than seven hours, depending on the setup.

Popular lift brands include Pro Comp, Daystar, Rancho, Fabtech, Skyjacker and Superlift.

What are the extra costs?

The prices quoted above will only include the lift kit and professional installation.  After the lift kit has been installed, you will need a professional alignment to make sure everything is lined up properly.  Some installers may include the alignment inside their quote, while others may charge you extra, anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on the setup.

If you were to do the job on your own, factor in the additional tools necessary to perform the job.  According to TruckSpring.com, you will need tools such as a jack stand, wrenches, spring clamps, tire stops, a breaker bar, lubricants and more.

Depending on the lift, you may have to modify existing parts to successfully install the lift.  All results will vary.

Some vehicle owners often install high-performance shocks in order to avoid damage.  While optional, a higher quality shock can cost upwards of $800 without the professional installation.  The same can be said about tires, especially those who plan on doing a lot of all-terrain driving.

How can I save money?

Call some shops to see what the going rates are.  As long as you know what kind of lift you want, they should be able to provide a ballpark estimate over the phone.

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How Much Does a Pit Bull Cost?

A pitbull, also known as a bull terrier, has been around since the early 20th century.   As a slight mix between a terrier and bulldog, these dogs are known for their outstanding strength and athleticism.  These dogs were originally bred in New England and can be found in many households today.

“Pit Bull Bella Sniffin” (CC BY 2.0) by  nineball2727

How much does a pitbull dog cost?

On average, a purebred champion pitbull puppy can often be adopted for $500 to as much as $1,500 for a purebred.  A pitbull with registration paperwork will usually hold some value as long as the parents have a good temperament and no health issues.  Registered pitbulls, on average, can in the $400 to $1,500 range, and most of the time, the price will greatly depend on the parent’s bloodline.  Now, if the dog can come from a world-class breeder, the prices can far exceed $3,000; in fact, you may see prices close to $10,000 or more.  Why is the price so high, you may be wondering?  This is due to the fact these dogs are stronger, have an improved temperament and come from a championship bloodline.

Older dogs and unregistered pitbull puppies, which are commonly found at local shelters and on classified websites, can cost less than $200 to adopt.  The cost will depend on the quality, age, gender, their bloodline, geographical location and who you adopt one from.

From our research, the average price will be in the $150 to $350 range due to the high amount of pitbulls available on the market.

Finest Pitbulls Made says you should be aware of backyard breeders who refer to their dogs as a “blue nose” or “red nose.”  While this breed may seem special and worth more, it’s just a dog with a special colored nose.  While these dogs can be a good pet, they are just gloried mutts and shouldn’t be thousands of dollars.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

A reputable breeder should almost always include a health guarantee, a health checkup performed by a vet and up-to-date vaccinations at a minimum.  Depending on who you adopt from, they may also include a microchip, spay/neutering and/or starter kit with samples and coupons.

If the puppy is going to be shipped via an airline, then the breeder will include an airline approved carrier.

What are the extra costs?

If the puppy is going to be shipped through an airline, the shipping fees can start at $200 and cost as much as $400 depending on the miles that have to be traveled.  However, keep in mind that some airlines do have restrictions when shipping this breed.

These dogs can be very aggressive, and because of this, it is often recommended they start dog obedience classes at an early age.  Obedience classes can start at $75 for an eight-week class and go up from there.

Ear cropping is a common practice for this particular breed, but many owners do not do it.  To have the ears cropped, the price can start at $200.

Recurring costs, as with any pet, will include the food, accessories, obedience classes, shelter and surprise/routine vet visits.  If healthy, the average dog owner should be prepared to spend about $800 per year and much more if the dog were to come down with an illness.

Tips to know:

Some cities and local counties have ordinances with this breed.  For example, these ordinances can often limit the number you can have or may even ban them completely.

Due to the aggressive behavior, many owners will find landlords will not rent properties to those who have this type of dog.  Keep this in mind if you currently rent your current home.

Pitbulls often do not get along very well with other dogs.  While they can get along with some breeds, always make sure that they are supervised when doing so.

Before adopting a pitbull, always see the parents in person.  This will help you understand the temperament and also let you see the breeding conditions.  If a breeder refuses to show you the parents or where the dog was raised for its first few years, this is a huge red flag and should be avoided at all costs.

How can I save money?

Check the local adoption agencies such as the Humane Society or local rescue groups.  Many older pitbulls often find themselves at a place such as this, and adoption fees at a local humane society can often be less than $200.

Don’t be fooled by the blue nose or red nose pit.  As stated earlier, these are glorified mutts that should be avoided at all costs.  If you truly want a dog with a “colored” nose, then at all means, make sure the price is less than a hundred dollars or so.

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