How Much Do Cinderella Hair Extensions Cost?

Cinderella hair extensions have been around since 1994, and unlike other hair extensions, the company uses a bonding formula that’s made from an organic protein designed to create very little damaging effects to your hair when it’s applied or removed.

“Behind the Scenes with Aveda™ – Oskl” (CC BY 2.0) by goMainstream

How much do Cinderella hair extensions cost?

The cost of Cinderella hair extensions will depend on the salon, the amount of hair you want and geographical location.  On average, a pack of hair can cost anywhere between $50 and $150 and won’t include the stylist costs.  According to About.com, you should expect to use at least three to seven packs of hair for a full head of extensions.  In addition to the packs, you will also have to pay your stylist.  Since most will charge by the hour, this, again, will depend on the amount of hair needed and the stylist you choose.  According to our research, those who have had this job professional done paid anywhere between $500 and $2,500.

Cinderella hair extensions overview

The process is relatively painless and can take two to six hours to complete, depending on the length of your hair and the stylist doing the job.  Each pack, on average, will take an experienced stylist about 45 minutes to apply.  With these hair extensions, you can enhance your colors, increase the thickness or even change your hair’s length, making these hair extensions quite versatile.

The process first begins by meeting with a stylist to discuss what you want to have done.  Those who specialize in these types of extensions will be certified by the manufacturer, so it’s always best to look for this certification.  During this consultation, your stylist will discuss your expectations, the length of your extensions, the colors you want and how many packs you’re going to need for the job.  Your stylist should have multiple sample packs on hand to physically show you the colors and style.  The company, at this time, offers 60 different colors, with 20 shades of blonde and a variety of hues and fantasy colors, including pink, purple and red.  As for the lengths, it can range anywhere from as short as eight inches to as long as 28 inches.

The four standard texture options, according to spamiamibeach.com, includes straight, bodywave, curly and afro-textured.

After this consultation ends, you will create an appointment and more than likely place a down payment in order for your stylist to purchase the packs.  Some stylists may also require you to sign a contract, which won’t hold them liable if something were to happen once you leave the salon.

During the actual procedure, your stylist will wash and blow dry your hair, followed by attaching hair in sections using one of three attachment methods: either via a classic organic bonding, t-tip tape extensions or i-tip extensions.

As long as they are put in right, the extensions should last three to five months.

What are the extra costs?

Prior to your extension appointment, your stylist may want to color and/or trim your hair to allow the extensions to blend in easier.

Plan on replacing your extensions every three to four months if you want to keep the same look.

Tips to know:

Cinderella hair extensions will use 100 percent Remy hair.  As with any extensions, it will take a lot more time involved when taking care of them.  Avoid washing your hair every day and only use shampoo and conditioner designed for extensions.  If you don’t know which products to buy, your stylist should be able to recommend some reputable brands.  A specific brush designed for extensions should be used to help keep your hair tangle free.  These brushes will have loops instead of bristles to keep your hair tangle free.

Cinderella before and after

How can I save money?

Consider checking out Groupon.com to find local salon deals that may offer this service.

If you are able to find a local beauty school, many of them will offer their services at greatly discounted prices.  Although a student will be doing your hair, a professional stylist will be standing by in case something goes wrong.

Many salons may offer a complimentary sitting, explaining how these extensions work and what it may cost you.  Consider talking with a few to see if you can compare prices.

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How Much Do Cinder Blocks Cost?

Cinder blocks, often referred to as a CMU, is usually made from a mixture of Portland cement blended cement, water and aggregates, and these blocks can help form a foundation, create a wall or for numerous other applications.  These blocks will be weather resistant, energy efficient and are designed for both commercial or residential settings.

“fpx052711-06” (CC BY 2.0) by  fontplaydotcom

How much do cinder blocks cost?

On average, cinder blocks can cost $1 to $2.5 per piece.  The cost will depend on the size and where you purchase it.

At Lowe’s, for instance, the common sized 8-in x 8-in x 16-in cinder block retails for a pinch more than $1.  The store implies that bulk discounts are available.

Menard’s also lists its prices on its official website.  According to the website, an eight-inch standard concrete block retails for $1.50, while four-inch construction block retails for $1.50.  Regardless of the size, most were less than $2 each.

Cinder block overview

Cinder blocks can come with a variety of surface finishes, including brick, ashlar, and cobblestone; however, the most commonly found in most stores will be the rockface variety.

While the standard size measures 8 by 8 by 16 inches, other sizes, as indicated in the table above, can be found as well.

Blocks can either be solid or hollow with two to three cores.

What are the extra costs?

If purchasing in bulk and you need it delivered, some retailers may have a flat shipping fee around $75 to $100; however, this fee may be waived if you meet the minimum spending requirements.

Tips to know:

Problems can occur over time, include natural cracking as the concrete shrinks or the wall moves.  It can also stain if dirt were to build up or water entered the wall from the base and moved its way upward.

According to the General Services Administration, cinder blocks are inexpensive, lightweight, easy to install, fireproof, low in maintenance and very durable.

Typical Uses

Foundation or basement walls.

A plainfaced partition wall or exterior wall often covered in stucco.

Used as a backup for a cavity wall construction.

Coatings may also be applied to the block in order to prevent water from penetrating.  This could include a Portland cement paint, latex paint, rubber-based coating, epoxy coating or urethane.

How can I save money?

Purchasing in bulk often brings the costs down by as much as 10 to 30 percent.

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How Much Does Cilantro Cost?

Cilantro is one of the many herbs that is used to alter the flavor of several dishes.  This specific herb is popular in southeastern and middle eastern cooking.  It’s also known to be used in Mexican dishes such as salsa and guacamole.

“Cilantro 1” (CC BY 2.0) by  Wheeler Cowperthwaite

How much does fresh cilantro cost per pound?

On average, fresh cilantro can cost about $1 to $2 per bunch or close to $7 per pound.  The costs will depend on the time of year, the market conditions and where you purchase it from.

Dried cilantro is usually sold in jars and can cost $2 to $15.

If you would like to plant cilantro and grow it in your garden, you can purchase the seeds for between $2 and $4.  It can also be easily grown in a window sill with a lot of sunlight.

Farmers Daughter Herbs, for instance, list their prices on their website.  One bunch is about $1, while a half pound will retail for about $3.  The FoodCoop.com, on the other hand, lists their prices around $2 per bunch.

Cilantro overview

Fresh cilantro, either purchased at the local farmers market or grocery store, will often be sold in bunches, weighing less than a few ounces.  Unlike a lot of fruits and vegetables you purchase individually, it will be a set bunch that can’t be altered.

Cilantro is known to be a tender herb, with a taste similar to mint or basil.  These leaves can be consumed raw or can be added near the end of a cooking session to maintain their flavor.  This herb is commonly paired with beans, eggs, fish, shrimp, cheese and even some vegetable dips.

Tips to know:

Buy cilantro only when you need it since it can spoil easily, leading to wastage.  Store cilantro in a refrigerator with the stems cut inside a jar of water.  Loosely cover the leaves with a plastic bag, and if done properly, it should last a few days.

Cilantro stems do not need to be thrown away since they can be used as added ingredient much like the leaves. For dishes that need a strong flavor, use the leaves; for dishes that need a mild flavor, use the stem.

Occasionally, the market may see a shortage in cilantro production, often leading to costs triple or even quadruple the costs mentioned above.  For example, in 2015, Mexico saw a shortage in production, leading to a carton costing $25 to $32, up from $8 to $9 the year prior.

Cilantro will have no cholesterol, will be rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, ultimately reducing your LDL (bad cholesterol), while increasing your HDL (good cholesterol).  It’s also known to be a good source of potassium, iron, magnesium, vitamin C and calcium.

When preparing, separate the leaves from the stem and only use the leaves.  Use a sharp knife to cut the leaves into desired sizes.  If the knife is dull, it may bruise the herb, forcing it to lose its flavor.

How can I save money?

Buying from a local farmers market is often going to be cheaper and healthier than buying from a local grocery store.

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How Much Does Bingo Cost?

Bingo is probably one of the most enjoyable and entertaining forms of gambling.  Most bingo games or tournaments have an entry fee, whether it is per game or per card watched.  However, each bingo game won will either pay cash or give you some type of prize for winning.

“Bingo” (CC BY 2.0) by  cote

How much does bingo cost?

On average, plan on spending anywhere from $1 to as much as $10 per card to play if you were to play at a local bingo hall.  However, if you were to play at a casino, the pricing may be different.  Casinos will often use packs with varying colors at a set price.  Each color, depending on the casino policy, will vary in jackpot winnings and each pack will contain a certain amount of cards, usually around 50 to 100.  These cards, unlike at a bingo hall where you manually market them, will be electronically checked as the game goes on.  Packs/session can often range anywhere from $20 to $50.

According to this TripAdvisor.com thread, they say you should plan on spending at least $20, at a minimum, to play bingo at a local casino.   Members also say the bingo played at a casino is often a lot different than traditional bingo played at local bingo halls or what you’re used to seeing at home.  These casinos, according to the thread, will use multi-colored packs and each color will be worth a certain amount.  These packs, depending on the casino, can contain 100 cards each.  In that same thread, one member said she paid about $35 at the Gold Coast Casino in Las Vegas and this was enough to allow her to play for the entire one-hour session, which was about 10 games total.

On this DisBoards.com thread, they talked about what it would cost to play bingo on a cruise ship.  According to the thread, they paid about $30 for six paper cards or $40 for 24 electronic cards.  The more you purchased during the session, the lower the “per card” fee would be.  On another thread on Cruisemates.com, they said they had paid $10 for one card or $20 for three cards, and the prices were in the $1,000 range.

Bingo overview

Depending on the location you play, most casinos today allow you to play either with an electronic card that automatically marks your card, usually via a computer, or manually, which allows you to mark the cards on your own.  Most bingo halls will often allow you to use markers, while casinos will use the electronic method, but again, all casinos will have its own policies.  Bingo players who often play say the staff at most places will be more than happy to help you before the game begins to explain how you play and what you need to do to get started.

Depending on the amount being played, it seemed as if jackpots would range anywhere between $500 to more than $10,000.  If playing at a bingo hall, it would seat an average of 100 guests, but some casinos were able to accommodate as many as 1,000 people.

What are the extra costs?

For those who play often where they use a manual marker, many opt to purchase bingo markers that help with marking the cards.  These markers only cost $1 to $3.

How can I save money?

If attending a local bingo hall or casino, go to the official website to see if they are offering any sort of deals.  For example, they may have a buy, one get one free deal or a senior day.

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How Much Does a Birth Certificate Cost?

A birth certificate is a vital record that holds information regarding a person’s birth and can be described as an original document that certifies the circumstances of a birth.  A birth certificate is necessary to do many things in life such as get a driver’s license or a passport.  If your birth certificate has been misplaced or ruined, a replacement can be issued by the government.

“Anne’s Birth Certificate” (CC BY 2.0) by John Fellner

How much does a birth certificate cost?

The price of getting a replacement birth certificate varies depending on the state you’re getting it in.  On average, getting a birth certificate copy from your state is going to vary anywhere from $5 to as much as $40.  Keep in mind that in order to get your birth certificate, you are going to need two forms of identification as well as your social security card.  We researched every state and included the fees we had found in our table below.

NOTE:  These were prices from counties within the state.  While most counties will vary, the price seems to be similar across the board within the state lines.  Always refer to your local Health Department for exact prices.  All prices were taken from the official Health Department websites.

Birth certificate overview

Birth certificates are available at all local Department of Health buildings or depending on the state, it can also be available via email, fax or mail.  To find out where you can get your birth certificate, you can use the official CDC search.

While most states will have its own legal requirements to obtain a certified birth certificate, most will have similar protocols.  This will include filling out an application online or in person, showing a valid form of identification/s, signing the application and reason why you need the certificate.

Depending on the state and the demand, the average turnaround time can be 30 to 60 days on average.

On your birth certificate, it will include your full name, time/date of birth, the city/county you were born in and your parents’ full name, including your mother’s maiden name.  Some certificates, depending on the state, may also include additional information such as the birthplaces of your parents, additional information about your parents and the name of children your children may already have at the time of your birth.

What are the extra costs?

Additional copies of each record can be an additional cost, usually 20 to 40 percent less than the first copy.

Rush orders are available in some states.  If this option is available, it appears it can cost three to four times more; again, depending on the state.

Tips to know:

You will need a birth certificate to apply for a passport, apply for government benefits, enrolling in some schools, joining the military, claiming benefits or receiving your driver’s license.

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How Much Does a Birch Tree Cost?

The birch tree is closely related to the breech and oak tree.   It is part of the Betulaceae family, which also includes hazels and alders, and they are considered to be small to medium-sized trees, thriving in temperate climates.  Two of the most common species found in yards across the Northeast include the River Birch and White Birch.

“Birch Trees” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by  saaby

How much does a birch tree cost?

On average, a birch tree can range anywhere from $5 to as much as $200.  This is going to depend on the size of the tree, the quality and where it’s purchased from.  A tree that is smaller than four feet tall, for instance, will be less than $10 while a tree taller than nine feet will cost more than $85 per tree.

Lowe’s, for instance, sells a 12-foot clump river birch tree for close to $60.

The Willis Orchard, on its website, lists the prices they charge.  A one to two-foot river birch tree will retail for about $7, while a larger tree, seven to eight feet tall, can cost $80, minus the shipping charges.

Birch tree overview

Small to medium in size, these trees can grow up to 70 feet in length, with the leaves turning yellow in the fall.  With a wide range of sizes and forms, some may resemble a smaller shrub while others can be a much larger tree, providing shade for an area.  According to The Tree Center, there’s a birch tree variety that can grow fast or can quickly dominate a landscape.

The most common birch trees you will find at local nurseries will include the river birch, dura heat river birch, heritage river birch and white paper birch.  The river birch is best suited for hotter climates and is famous for its peeling bark that looks great year around.  The dura heat river birch is a popular ornamental tree that will be denser and greener in color.  Hardy for most zones, it’s fast growing, wind/ice resistant and creates beautiful butter-yellow leaves in the fall.  The heritage river birch grows more than two feet per year and is easy to grow in virtually any environment.  This birch tree can adapt to all soils, and when fully grown, it can provide quite a bit of shade.  Lastly, the white paper birch is one of the tallest varieties, growing up to 70 feet tall in some occasion.  Known for its peeling white bark and bright yellow flowers in the spring, this variety can also provide quite a bit of shade once fully grown.

What are the extra costs?

Shipping fees may apply if purchased at a nursery or online.

If you hire a professional to plant the tree for you, this will cost extra, and the costs will depend on the size of the tree.  The average professional planting, however, should be in the $50 to $100 range.

Tips to know:

Due to the shallow root system of a birch tree, it should be noted that this tree is very sensitive to heat and droughts.  It needs to consistently be kept moist and kept in cooler soil.  When planting, make sure the roots will be protected in the shade during the peak afternoon hours.

Birch trees need specific conditions to grow properly.  The trees should be planted in soil that has enough nutrients to accommodate the growth.  Make sure you apply organic fertilizers that can boost the growth of the trees as these trees often grow best in acidic and alkaline soils.

Avoid planting these trees underneath overhead wires.

These trees are susceptible to borers and other insects.  It is recommended that an insect control program is used.

Lower hanging branches that interfere with a sidewalk or driveway should be pruned.  Also, if the branches are dead or have some sort of disease, these branches should be pruned as well.

How can I save money?

It does not hurt to look for coupons during the planting seasons to see if there are any deals that you can take advantage of.

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How Much Does a BiPAP Machine Cost?

The BiPAP machine, which stands for Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure, is commonly used to effectively manage obstructive pulmonary disease and acute respiratory failure.  Similar to the function and design of a CPAP, there are some key differences such as offering two pressure settings: one for inhalation and a lower pressure for exhalation.  While these diseases are usually mild and simply cause interrupted sleep patterns, they can often be considered fatal since, in some cases, it may prevent some people from breathing while sleeping.

How much does a BiPAP machine cost?

On average, a BiPAP machine can cost anywhere from $950 to as much as $3,500+.

cpapsupplyusa.com, for instance, lists a few BiPAP machines for sale on its website.  Here, the prices range anywhere from as little as $875 to more than $3,500.

What are the extra costs?

Full facial and nasal masks can be purchased for anywhere from $80 to $200, depending on the brand and where you purchase it from.  nasal masks should be replaced every 90 days, while the nasal pillows and mouth tubing should be replaced every month.

Since the device can be used during sleeping, the masks can be ineffective if the mouth is left wide open.  To control this, there are chin supports that can be purchased to keep the mouth closed so the tube will not fall off.

If a carrying case is not included, you may want to consider purchasing one for protection.

You may also need a rechargeable battery, depending on the brand.

BiPAP vs a CPAP

A CPAP machine will deliver a continuous, steady stream of pressurized air into the patient’s airways to prevent the lungs from collapsing, which often causing apnea-related events.  CPAP machines, as mentioned above, can only be set to one single pressure setting, meaning it will stay consistent throughout the night.  Some brands, according to AlaskaSleep.com, may have a feature which allows you to set it a lower setting and gradually build it to a prescribed pressure.  This low pressure allows you to fall asleep easier since it makes it more tolerable in the beginning, gradually increasing as the night goes on.

Due to the constant pressure, some patients complain about the difficulty in exhaling, making it difficult to force their breathing in and out.  BiPAPs allow a patient to set a timing feature which is able to measure the number of breaths a person should be making each minute.  If it exceeds the limit, the machine can cut off and will allow the patient to breathe naturally.

The main difference between the two will be the two pressure settings the BiPAP offers.  One will be the prescribed pressure for the inhalation, referred to as pap, and the lower pressure for exhalation, known as epap.  This dual setting, unlike the CPAP, allows the patient to receive more air in their lungs.

Tips to know:

This machine is often recommended prescribed for those who need high-pressure settings or have low oxygen levels; it can also be prescribed for those who have a lung disorder or with a certain neuromuscular disorder.  It’s also recommended if the CPAP option fails.

How can I save money?

If you only need the machine for a limited amount of time or you want to try a particular brand, consider renting from a local health supply retailer.  Usually around $99 to $150 per month, this allows you to test the machine, use it for a certain duration and/or avoid costly repairs if they were to occur.  It’s also a nice option for those who want to travel and need a battery-capable machine or need one while your machine is currently being repaired.  Also, if renting, check with Medicare or your private insurance company to see what’s covered.  According to alsfrombothsides.org, these insurance companies will pay up to 80 percent of the rental price for 13 months.

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How Much Does a Birman Cat Cost?

The Birman cat became popular because it is considered the sacred cat of Burma.  The Birman cat is known for its pale colored body, deep blue eyes and many dark spots, which gives the cat a mysterious look.

“otannyk kuvaaaa!” (CC BY 2.0) by kahvikisu

How much does a Birman cat cost?

The costs of a Birman cat depends on the geographical location, the breeder selling the kitten, the age and quality.  According to our research, the average Birman kitten can cost anywhere between $400 and $650.  Show quality cats, however, can be much more, often costing as much as $1,500 or more.

BirmanBreed.net says it’s not uncommon to see a high-quality show breed cost $2,000.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

Reputable breeders will often include registration paperwork, up-to-date vaccinations, a health guarantee and a travel crate if it’s going to be shipped.  Some breeders may also include a microchip and TICA registration if available.

Before you’re able to bring the kitten home, a breeder will ask for a non-refundable deposit, often around $200 to $400, if the kitten isn’t available that days.  Once you pick up the cat, the deposit will then be applied to the total cost.  Reputable breeders will wait until the kitten is eight to 12 weeks before you’re able to take it home.

What are the extra costs?

As with any animal, be sure to factor in the recurring costs such as food, accessories, cat litter and routine/surprise vet visits.  The average cat owner can spend up to $600 per year if the cat is healthy and much more if it were to come down with a disease or surgery.

While a professional grooming session isn’t required, it will need regular grooming sessions to keep a healthy looking coat.  Not only will these grooming sessions help with the cat’s coat, it will also help circulate the skin, removing any debris and loose hair that’s present.

Since it can be hard to find one of these cats locally, you may have to pay an additional fee to have the cat shipped or transported via a car.  An airline can charge $200 to $400, while ground transportation could cost up to $350, depending on the distance being traveled.

Tips to know

The coat is known to be long, soft, silky and common colors may include blue, chocolate, lilac, seal and spotted.  The coat is a single coat, and they won’t have an undercoat like other breeds, making it non-matting.  With proper nutrition, the shedding should be kept at a minimum.

Males often weigh more than females, weighing close to nine to 15 pounds, while females weigh less than 10 pounds on average.

Its temperament is known to be extremely sociable, gentle, affectionate and active.

It can do well with children as long as they are trained to handle with care.  Not fearful of strangers, the Birman is known to be affectionate with anyone who walks through the door.

When compared to other breeds, CatBreedsList.com says it tends to be very quiet and isn’t known to vocalize as much.

Try to inspect the cattery in person to see how the cat socializes and the cleanliness of the area.  A clean area often shows the owner cares about their cats and can reflect their organizational habits.

When signing a contract, always make sure it comes with some sort of health warranty and know what may happen if the cat were to die within a few months of owning it.  It’s best to take it to a vet’s office 24 hours after adoption to see if any problems persist.

When choosing a breeder, try to get as many references as possible.  It also doesn’t hurt to check out their reputation online as well.

How can I save money?

If you’re able to find one, a retired show cat can be much less.  It also doesn’t hurt to check out a local rescue group or Humane Society to see if any older cats or kittens which may look similar are up to for adoption.

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How Much Does a Bichon Frise Cost?

The Bichon Frise is often compared to, and even confused with, the Maltese.  While it can look eerily similar, there are some differences.  This breed is known to be sensitive, affectionate, playful and is used to having human accompaniment the majority of the time, demanding a lot of attention.  Because they are mainly bred as companion dogs, they are known to get along very well with children and other household pets.

“yes Virginia, there is a munchkin” (CC BY 2.0) by  mrRobot

How much does a Bichon Frise cost?

The cost of a Bichon Frise will depend on the age, quality, gender, its parents, breeder and the inclusions that come with the adoption.  On average, these dogs can cost anywhere from $650 to as much $1,500 for a purebred.  Older dogs, or puppies without paperwork, however, could be much less if found at a local shelter.  Puppies that come from champion parents can often cost more than $1,200, while your middle-of-the-road puppy with all of its paperwork can cost $600 to $850 on average.

LittleNellBichonFrise.com, a Bichon Frise breeder, sells dogs with AKC registration paperwork, a written health guarantee contract, up-to-date vaccinations as well as a de-worming treatment.  The price for the Bichon Frise, according to the website, can range anywhere from $700 to $1,250 depending on the type of registration, which can be limited or full.

At the time of writing this guide, PuppyFind.com, a popular online dog classified website, had more than 150 ads, with costs ranging from $500 to more than $1,500.

When we were researching the official breeders on the AKC marketplace, we had found most breeders were charging $1,200 to $1,900 for their puppies that were around six to ten weeks old.

What is going to be included in the adoption fee?

Most reputable breeders will always include up-to-date vaccinations, registration paperwork, a health guarantee, vet checkup, spay/neuter and/or microchip.  Before signing any contract, a breeder should include all of their inclusions you will get with your adoption price.  AKC breeds will often come with full documentation of the parents, their OFA health certifications and a DNA profile if requested.

What are the extra costs?

To keep their coat free of mats, a monthly professional grooming session is highly recommended to keep its coat slim.  Aside from this, its owner should also make it a habit of brushing every other day.  Bichon Frise grooming sessions can cost close to $75 on average, depending on where you live.

Professional obedience classes to teach the dog, at a minimum, the basic commands of sit, stay and lie down, should be considered.  These classes, depending on where you go, can start at $50 and go up from there.

Recurring costs, as with any dog or pet, will include food, shelter, accessories, toys and routine/surprise vet visits.

Tips to know:

The average Bichon Frise weighs in at about 12 to 20 pounds, measures nine to 12 inches tall and can live close to 15 years if healthy.

Its coat will be looser with a curly outer coat, which is lined with a softer, silky undercoat.  Commonly white in color, some breeds may have cream, gray or apricot shadings.

Its temperament is known to be appealing to most since it gets along with so many pets and people.  They are considered highly social, energetic, charming and inquisitive.

When researching any breeder, use extreme caution when choosing a puppy.  If you’re insistent on an AKC certified breed, then it’s best to use the AKC puppy search tool.  If you don’t want an AKC certified dog, then try your best to see the puppy in person and ask as many questions as possible.  If the breeder seems as if they just want to hand the dog off and don’t care who it goes home with, then you may want to look elsewhere as this breeder may only be in it for the money.

Like most of your smaller dogs, they are known to be bark at every strange sight and sound if not trained properly.

This dog will suffer from separation anxiety since it often needs more companionship when compared to other breeds.  If left alone for long periods of time, then it may become into an unwanted barker.

These dogs are considered to be non-shedding and do have hypoallergenic properties, but it’s important to remember there’s no such thing as a dog that won’t cause allergies.  While the shedding will be minimal, you may see the occasional “dust bunny.”

They do enjoy a daily walk and play sessions, so it won’t be ideal for those who live a sedentary lifestyle.  They are suited for apartment living as long as they are able to exercise freely from time to time.

Bichons, just like any other breed, can develop health problems over time.  This can include skin diseases, allergies, bladder stones, patellar luxation, juvenile cataracts, excessive tooth decay and hip dysplasia.

How can I save money?

Consider a shelter such as the Humane Society or a rescue group that specializes with this breed.  While you may not be able to find a puppy or even this specific breed, you may be able to find a dog that looks similar.  Adopting a dog will be much cheaper and you can feel good knowing you’re offering a dog a loving home.

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How Much Does a Bike Tune Up Cost?

A bike tune-up is very similar to a car tune-up and is suggested every six months.  A tune-up usually, at a minimum, involves checking the tires, brakes, the chain and the gears for multi-speed bikes.

“Bicycle” (CC BY 2.0) by Michael PG

How much does a bike tune-up cost?

On average, a standard bike tune-up can cost $30 to $80.  This price will depend on the professional you choose, where you live and what’s included in the tune-up.  A simple $30 to $50 job will include a quick clean and adjustment, while the costs can be much higher if you were to add more services to the job.  For example, replacing all of the brake and shift cable/housing could be in the $100 to $150 range, while doing everything mentioned, plus removing the parts, rebuilding the bearing assemblies and performing a deeper clean can be closer to $200.  Refer to our table below to see what the different tiers of service would cost at the average bike shop.

Members on BikeForums.net, for instance, chimed in and said they had paid anywhere from as little as $20 for a basic tune-up to as much as $200 for a complete tuneup.

Popular Mechanics says the costs can be between $30 to $75 and talks about what’s included in the average tune-up.

Dick’s Sporting Goods offers four tune-up options:  basic, premium, brake system and drivetrain.  The drivetrain and brake system tune-up retails for $24.99, whereas the basic option is $39.99.

Bike tune-up overview

Most bicycle tune-ups will include the cleaning, lubrication, wheel truing, drivetrain adjustment, brake adjustment and a thorough inspection.  Premium tune-up jobs, as mentioned earlier, can include more work, including removing parts, rebuilding assemblies and/or replacing cables.  While tune-ups will be similar, some may include certain services while others won’t.  Before you pay, just make sure you know what you’re getting since all shops won’t be created equally.

What are the extra costs?

The prices mentioned above won’t include additional parts.  For example, if you have an older bike, then it may need new brake pads, a new chain, new cables and/or housing.  If the tires were bald and in need of replacement, this would be an additional cost to consider as well.  However, even if all of these parts were to be replaced, it would only be another $100 to $200 or so.  A simple chain installation, for instance, would cost $5 to $15 without the parts, while a grip install could be in the $5 to $10 range.

Additional costs can apply to rush orders.

Tips to know:

Experts recommend getting your bike tuned every year unless you ride more than the average cyclist.

How can I save money?

A lot of retailers that specialize in bikes often offer its customers discounts on tune-up as long as you purchased the bike through them.  According to the BikeForums.net thread we had mentioned at the top, some said some retailers in their town offered free basic tuneups to their customers for life.   REI, for instance, offers a free bicycle tune-up for every bike after 20 hours of use or six months from the purchase date, whichever comes first.  If you didn’t buy your bike at REI, then the costs would be in the $60 to $105 range, depending on the package chosen.

Minor tune-up jobs can often be done on your own such as lubing the chain or checking the tire pressure.  If you attempt to try some of the larger jobs and don’t have experience, then you may screw things up, causing more problems for the future.

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