How Much Does Parking Lot Striping Cost?

Parking lot striping can be done for a variety of reasons, but more oftentimes than not, it’s done either to replace fading lines or if a new parking lot is being installed.  Experts recommend replacing the parking lot stripes every 24 to 36 months.

Painting these lines, when done correctly, can help keep a professional appearance, prevent accidents and even protect pedestrians.

“empty parking lot” (CC BY 2.0) by radworld

How much does parking lot striping cost per foot?

The average cost to stripe a parking lot will vary depending on a variety of factors, including the quantity of the pavement markings and whether or not the parking lot is brand new and needs new stripes or it simply needs to be re-striped.

Most professionals, from what we researched, will always charge a minimum fee, regardless of the job size to cover labor, fuel, paint, equipment and the typical overhead costs.  This fee, depending on your geographical location and distance traveled, can range anywhere from $300 to $600.  These fees, of course, would be applied toward the total job.

With a company able to do more than just stripe your parking lot, the costs can vary as all jobs are so unique.  To make things easy when estimating, we included our findings in our table below:

This table, hopefully, can offer you a better idea of what it may cost you.  For exact costs, we highly recommend using HomeAdvisor.com to find reputable contractors in your area.  With this tool, you can simply describe your job and contractors will contact you with bids at no cost.

The writer of this ParkingLotStripingBusiness.com blog post said the first thing he does when he arrives at a location is count and record the number of four-inch lines in the lot as, according to the post, these will be the lines that will make up most of the jobs.  From there, he will count up these lines, multiply it by $4, and then, calculating the linear footage, he will multiply it by another 20 cents.  After this, the next step is looking for additional painting requirements, aside from the lines, such as the stop bars, arrows, light bases and bumpers, and depending on the item, the costs can vary.  This blog post, written from a contractor’s point of view, can show you what you should expect when a contractor bids on your parking lot striping project.

Joe Pullaro, Inc., a commercial painting contractor based in Tampa, Florida, lists his prices on his official pricing sheet.  The prices, as seen in our table above, will greatly depend on what needs to be done.  A four-inch stall line will cost $3 each, while a 12-inch digit will cost $2 each.  His pricing sheet could offer a real-life example as to what a contractor may charge.

The extra costs to consider

In a lot of cases, potholes may need to be patched in order to paint properly.  The costs will depend on the pothole size and the cost of the asphalt.

If any logos, arrows and/or symbols need to be customized/drawn can increase the costs as the contractor will need to create a stencil for the project.

Touching upon the costs mentioned a bit above, if any curbs or bumpers need to be painted, this can increase the costs and will greatly depend on the size of the curb.

Before the striping, some opt to have the lot seal coated ahead of time, which on average, can cost $0.20 per square foot.

Tips to know

Contractors will use two different types of pain:  either an oil-based paint or latex.  Oil-based paints are usually reserved for restripes and new layouts, whereas a latex-based paint will be used for a resurfaced lot, but it can be used for new layouts and restriping, too.  A new line, according to Rmaces.org, when done, should be at least 15 mils thick, usually done in two coats.

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How Much Does DailyBurn Cost?

DailyBurn, an online fitness website, claims you can reach your fitness goals through expert workout videos, personalized plans and nutritional information.

As of today, the website claims to offer more than 500 workouts with more than 16 different exercise programs, all being offered from elite expert trainers.

“1” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Fit Approach

How much does DailyBurn cost?

When you first for the first time, you will be able to try the program for 30-days at no cost.  During this 30-day trial, you will be given access to the full library of videos, articles and all nutritional information.  At this time, you can, while optional, sign up for one-on-one coaching guidance for an additional $15 per month, but again, you can decline this option as it is completely up to you.

If you do not cancel your subscription before your 30-day trial ends, then the company will start charging you $14.95 a month for the basic or $19.95 for the premium and there no contracts, meaning you can cancel your membership at any time.  You can view more about the official program and its pricing policy by clicking .  The company does not offer refunds and/or partial credits for any reason.

These costs will be the same, no matter where you download it, whether it’s via Amazon or Hulu.

NOTE:  Prices extracted from the official website.

The extra costs to consider

Keep in mind that some videos will require additional equipment in order to complete the classes.  This may include kettlebells or yoga mats, for example.  From what we researched, you should be prepared to spend an additional $100~ on this equipment if you do not have it already.  Keep in mind that equipment is optional, however.

If following the website’s nutritional program, you will need to consider the additional supplements and food you may need to purchase outside of what you’re used to buying.

How does DailyBurn work?

In order to access the library of workouts, the website will first want you to answer a few basic questions, including your current weight, your goal weight, age, gender and email address.

Then, you will be asked to complete a two-minute assessment which will ask you about your age range, gender, current fitness activity and what kind of workouts you may enjoy.

Based on all of these answers, the website will display recommended workout videos and a fitness program, which you can watch a preview before committing to see if it’s a workout you enjoy.

Then, after the free trial, if you feel the website is for you, you will gain access to the entire library of more than 100 workout videos, sorted by goals, difficulty, the duration and the workout length.  In order to receive details on the workout in question, you can click the description.

All of the videos in the DailyBurn library can be streamed either on your laptop/computer, phone, tablet, Apple TV, Xbox, Chromecast, Roku and more.  To see a full list of supported devices, you can click here.  The company also offers an app, which is free to download, but in order to access the premium content, you must sign up for an account using your credit card.

What kind of workouts does the company offer?

Beautiful Belly Yoga – A program designed for expectant mothers, this program lasts the entire pregnancy, seperated by each of the three trimesters.

Black Fire – Led by Bob Harper, this two-month program focuses on shorter, full-body exercises and is recommended for advanced users who are used to intense workouts.

Cardio Sculpt – A three-month program which will require you work out six times a week, combining 12 workouts in total.  This course focuses more on your abs, legs and buttocks area.

CORE – This two-week program will help intensify and strengthen your abs, lower back, glutes and hip flexors by using a variety of exercising routines.

DailyBurn 365 – Each workout, regardless of which one you choose in this category, lasts 30 minutes and can either be accessed live or on demand every day.  No additional weight equipment is a requirement in order to participate.

DB15 – Lasts 15 minutes for 15 total days and can help transform your body quicker than you ever imagined.  Exercises greatly vary, ranging from yoga-like routines to MMA fighting.

DBK – Using kettlebells to improve your strength and toning, DBK helps transform your body with 15 different 50-minute videos.

Inferno – Led by Anja Garcia, this is a 21-day intense program which is designed to keep you break your “rep” records week after week.

Inferno HR – Similar to the Inferno program mentioned above, this program focuses more on advanced exercises for those who want to achieve both strength and weight loss.  For this course, a heart rate monitor is recommended to track your results and receive automated online feedback.

Live to Fall – An intense 90-day course which is designed for advanced users who want to push their body to the max.  This course is designed for those who either want to lose weight or gain muscle.

MOVE! – Offering 30 47-minute workouts, MOVE! is led by the trainer, Keaira LaShae, a professional trainer who will help boost your metabolism by incorporating dance-related workouts.

Pilates – A series of three-week courses led by Andrea Speir, these classes will help with your flexibility and strength, concentrating on your body’s abdomen and cent of the body.

Recover – This setup consists of five, 30-minute videos which last over the course of a week, using Yoga techniques to help you relieve tension.

Tactical Bodyweight Training (TBT) – Led by Cody Storey, this 28-day course helps improve your mobility and motion.

Total Cardio – Using three different trainers, Total Cardio helps you lose weight and increase your strength over this 28-day video series.

True Beginner – The name says it all — a four-week exercise routine designed for those who are just starting out.

Yoga – Working at your own pace, the Yoga series ranges from basic to advanced poses, moving you along as you progress.

Yoga Made Simple – This novice four-week program, led by Briohny Smith, helps you transition into yoga, regardless of your skill set.

The DailyBurn reviews from around the Internet

Highya.com reviewers gave it a three-star rating based on 79 reviews.

On Amazon, 400+ reviewers gave it a 3.8 out of five stars.

More than 3,000 Google Play users gave it a 4 out 5 stars.

1,300+ reviewers .

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How Much Does Children’s Learning Adventure Cost?

The Children’s Learning Adventure is said to be the industry leader in childhood education, offering the highest level of educational opportunities for children ages six weeks to 12 years old, according to the official website.

The company currently operates in 11+ states with more than 40 learning centers.

How much does the Children’s Learning Adventure cost?

The tuition costs of Children’s Learning Adventure, from what we researched, would greatly vary on the geographical location, the program your child signs up for and the applicant’s age.  According to the official website, the school arranges their pricing based on tiers, for each of its facilities to be competitive with other quality programs in the area.

For a full-time based program, be prepared to spend $200 to $450 a week, depending on your child’s age, while the part-time programs will be half this cost.  As for the afterschool programs, from what we saw online, the costs could range in the $100~ a week or $20 a day range.

The center also offers a summer camp program, and from the looks of it, the center will offer you a calendar/list of the activities they are offering.  From there, you will then be able to decide which activities you want your child to partake in and the center will be able to offer a quote.  Like the programs, the cost of the summer camp will be based on the amount of days you want your child to attend and the prices will be similar to the estimates mentioned prior and in the table below.

NOTE:  These prices were sourced from a few reviews we found on Yelp and cannot be guaranteed to be accurate.

One member on this BabyCenter.com forum thread, for example, stated she was quoted $180 a week for her child in Maricopa County, Arizona.

Program offerings

The center, from what we learned, offers both part-time and full-time programs for infants ages six weeks and up, to preschool and early kindergarten-based curriculum programs.  The center also offers after-school programs for children up to age 12, with transportation offered to and from local schools.

The atmosphere, innovations and mission

The Children’s Learning Center makes your child’s quest for knowledge both fun and exciting by offering multiple infant, preschool and afterschool programs.  The school offers interactive, engaging programs which are designed to meet your child’s educational and social goals by using what’s known as the STEAM-based learning system.

The centers offer specialty classrooms, enriched with learning adventures and discovery in technology, dramatic play and science-based curriculum.  These centers also offer indoor amenities and an expansive outdoor playground, all of which will vary depending on the geographical location.

Five unique innovations the center offers include the Imagination Island, which is complete with miniature shops, allowing your child to learn about real-world scenarios.  The center also offers a unique science center, known as the Laboratory Lagoon, which comes complete with a planetarium.  A multimedia room, referred to as the Picture Paradise, offers a mock TV studio setup with video cameras.  The Nature’s Nook, also offered, is a garden offered on site, allowing your child to use his or hers curiosity side.  Lastly, the Reading Reef, is an expansive library which is designed to make reading fun.

In some of the mega-facilities, the club offers an indoor basketball court, bowling lanes, a ballet studio and iPad stations, according to Cincinnati.com.

Children’s Learning Adventure facts

All employees are required to go through six weeks of training through what’s known as the CLA Academy.

All of the Children’s Learning Adventure locations can be found here.

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How Much Does a Quaker Parrot Cost?

Over the years, the quaker parrot has shown up under multiple names, including the monk parakeet or grey fronted parakeet.

Today, however, they are simply known as a quaker.

Along with these different names you may have heard of, they come in a variety of colors as well, including a sky blue color, yellow, white and lutino to name a few.

“yellow headed parrot” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by cuatrok77

The average quaker parrot price

The cost of a quaker parrot, as with most captive parrots, will depend on the mutations/colors, rarity, the breeder you choose to work with, where they live, the age and the gender of the bird.  From our research, the average price for a high-quality common quaker parrot can range anywhere from $250 to $550 each before shipping.  In some cases, you may be able to purchase a pair for as little as $450 total.  A rarer blue quaker can cost closer to $700+.

Before considering a purchase, however, make sure you check your local state laws as some states do outlaw these birds as a pet due to the possibility of being a threat to crops and local agriculture.  According to BirdFarm.com, they are outlawed in California, Connecticut Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee and Wyoming.  Some states, such as Ohio, have strict laws if you were to own one such as a mandatory wing clipping.

BirdBreeders.com, a popular online bird-only classified website, had about 20 active listings at the time of this publishing, with prices ranging from $292 for a monk parakeet to as much as $675 for a proven pair of blue/green split quaker parrots that were three years old.  Most breeders, from what we saw, would charge an additional charge for shipping and almost all of the birds were weaned/hand fed and ready to go to a good home.

BirdsNow.com, another birds-only classified website similar to BirdBreeders.com, had almost 200 active listings at the time of this writing, with the prices greatly varying from $250 to $550.

On this QuakerParrots.com forum thread, multiple members discussed the costs they had paid for their quaker parrots.  According to most of the responses, the prices were all over the place, ranging anywhere from $195 for a blue mutation, which tends to be the most common, to as much as $800 for a rare mutation.

Some shoppers have reported Petco offering a blue quaker parrot for about $900, but the availability greatly depends on the region and the availability.

The additional costs to budget for

Maintaining a proper diet

A well-balanced diet is crucial and should consist of a variety of seeds, commercialized pellets and small slices of fruits and leafy green vegetables.  Owners are also encouraged to feed their birds calcium supplements and offer hard-like objects for the bird to peck at throughout the day.

The cage requirements

Since these birds love to chew and peck at items throughout the day, a stainless steel cage is highly recommended to prevent the bird from ruining the cage.  The cage, which should be as large as possible, should measure at least 18″ x 18″ x 18″.  Known to be escape artists, the spacing between the cages should be kept to a minimum, with experts recommending a 5/8-inch spacing requirement.  At the bottom of the cage should include a metal grate with some sort of substrate to catch any of the bird’s droppings.

As these birds are messy, the cage should be cleaned weekly with a good scrub down of the boards and floors.  The substrate should be cleaned at least once a week as well.

Description

The quaker parrot is primarily green with grey feathers on both the forehead and the neck, with the wings displaying a hint of blue.  Other variations include blue and a very rare yellow.

The bird, when mature, measures nine to 11 inches long, with a 10-inch wingspan and average weight of 3.5 ounces.

In captivity, the quaker can live 30 to 35 years with a well-balanced diet.

Temperament

They are known be very inquisitive, playful and are known to be extremely good talkers, able to mimic words, songs and even whistling patterns, with most learning how to speak in about six months.  They are also known be playful, engaging, mischievous and very active.

Known to form tight bonds with their owners, they are known to be quite devoted.

Interaction, as with most captive parrots, is extremely important as you want to avoid the domineering behavior some quakers are known to exhibit.  They should not be left in their cage all day to avoid boredom and behavioral troubles and should always have some sort of entertainment as they are very mechanically inclined, meaning they are able to figure out locks and disassemble a variety of toys with ease.

Quaker parrot facts

Since males and females look the same, you need to consider DNA testing if you want to distinguish the gender.

These birds originated from Brazil and Argentina but have also established colonies in some parts of the United States, estimated to be in the tens of thousands.

Unlike a lot of exotic birds, the quaker can actually withstand colder temperatures as they have been seen as far north as Illinois.

Don’t underestimate the bird’s size.  Maxing out at 11 inches in length, the quaker believe they are much larger birds, seldom intimidated by larger birds or pets.

The quakers are known for being one of the best talkers in the small bird group, able to mimic many words, sounds and even songs they are taught.

Most people know parrots for their “scream,” but the quaker tends to “chatter,” which can raise and lower in sound.

Signs of a healthy quaker parrot

Should always show signs of brightly colored eyes and nostrils.

Its demeanor should be lively and perky and shouldn’t be sitting on the floor looking depressed.

As these birds do like to stay well groomed, its feathers should appear neat and clean when examined.

With any bird, they will regularly eat and drink throughout the day, especially during the night and morning.

Being social, a healthy quaker will always make noises throughout the day.

Quaker parrot talking

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How Much Does a Parrotlet Cost?

Known as one of the friendliest, smallest and most lovable birds on the market, parrotlets, known for its brilliant colors, are miniature in size and are known for their vibrant colors.

Even though they are small, don’t be fooled as they can still outsmart and be just as intelligent as their bigger cousins, the parrot.

“Lily Step Up” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by harrisonfarr

The average parrotlet price

The cost of a parrotlet, from our research, would greatly vary on the colors, age, the gender, quality, rarity and the breeder you’re adopting from.  To budget, plan on spending anywhere from $50 to $450+.  On the market, what you’re going to find out is that females and males that come in a common color will be much cheaper than an in-demand mutation that’s deemed to be rare.  Blue and green, for example, tend to be the most common colors and will be your cheapest options, while a rare mutation such as a turquoise pied or dilute turquoise could be as high as $500+

BirdsNow.com, a popular birds-only classified website online, had about 200 active listings at the time of this publishing, with prices in the $100 to $300 range.

BirdBreeders.com, another website similar to BirdsNow.com, had about 100 listings, with the average cost ranging from $100 to $350.

Occasionally, if you are able to find a parrotlet at a big box retailer, such as Petco, they will often sell for $300 to $400.

The extra costs to budget for

The types of parrotlets

Blue – Native to the South America region, the blue male parrotlet is known for its blue stripes on the upper and under part of the wing, with no streaks around the eyes, while the female is completely opposite of this.

Blue Fallow – Found in North America, the blue fallow has a dull green body, an apple-like green mask color and small blue streaks near the eye.  The females will look similar, but their colors will appear duller and you won’t find the blue streaks near the eye.  Out of all parrotlets, this species tends to have the largest personality that can be compared to that of a parrot.

Green Rump – Also native to the South American region, the green rump is one of the smallest in the parrotlet species.  The male has a bright emerald-green like body, with the wings displaying a nice shade of blue.  The female, on the other hand, will have a complete green body with a yellowish tinge on her forehead, with the beak and feet pink in color.  Even though most parrotlets are active and chirpy in nature, the green rump species tend to be more reserved.

Lutino – The largest of all parrotlet species, the lutino, turquoise in color, can be found in the western parts of Mexico.  These birds are becoming more endangered, so it will be much harder to find them being sold on the market.  With that being said, the males are dark green in color, with a smidge of turquoise streaks on its wings, while the females display a completely green body with yellow-green markings on its wing instead blue.

Sclater’s – Found in Brazil, the males have a deep green color with a violet ting on the lower back and rump, while the female will be lighter in color.  These birds are rare on the market.

Spectacled/Pied – Well liked by newbie parrot owners, this relatively new parrotlet species was imported from Europe.  Deep green in color with a vibrant violet-blue stripe and a distinctive bright ring around the eye, they can learn quite a few words and are considered to be very active.

Yellow – One of the largest parrotlets for sale, this species has a brilliant yellow body with a green underside, while the males will have a pinch more gray near the top, with a bright blue on the wings and lower back.  The yellow parrotlet also tends to be reserved and won’t call for much in terms of love and touching.

Housing requirements

Try to set up the largest cage as possible, allowing the bird to fly comfortably from one side to the next, in a room away from the direct sunlight and one that is frequently attended such as a living room against a wall if possible.  Inside the cage should be a variety of toys and perches of all sizes to keep the bird mentally stimulated.  While they can do great as an indoor pet, some owners allow their parrotlet to fly and/or walk around the home when bored.  LaurasLittleParrots.com recommends a cage of about 18″ x 18″ and larger.

The cage, including the metal grate, food bowl and water bowl, should be cleaned at least once a week to guarantee your bird’s health and safety.  When cleaning the cage, be sure to clean the bars in detail, the perches, toys and any accessories.  If any of these items are looking worn, then it’s best to replace them with a new set.

Some owners, while optional, will purchase a travel crate in order to safely transport their bird while on the road.

Feeding requirements

Experts recommend feeding your bid roughly 12 percent of its body weight daily, with the diet consisting of a pellet-based diet, fresh diced fruits, vegetables and a good source of calcium such as cuttlefish shells.  Parrotlets often prefer to feed on bananas, green beans, corn, apples, peas, pears and oranges to name a few.  While a small serving of nuts may be served, it’s recommended you limit their consumption as it is considered a “treat.”

As with most captive birds, avoid feeding your bird any food that isn’t designed for its system, including avocados, fruit seeds, peanuts, sugar, chocolate or anything fatty in nature.  All of these items, even in low qualities, can cause serious health concerns for your pet.

Clean distilled water should be available at all times and should be changed twice a day.

Parrotlet facts

Pint in size, these birds range anywhere from four to six inches in size, characterized by a stock body and short-like tail.  They are the smallest parrots in the world.

Similar to the lovebirds in regards to their personality, they are known to be very cuddly, intelligent and need a lot of interaction with either other parrotlets or their own.  Due to their size, they are often carried around in a pocket and are commonly referred to as “pocket parrots.”

Due to their small size, they tend to be much quieter than their cousins, which makes them an ideal choice for an apartment-like setting.   They can learn and mimic certain words with training, but they will not be considered the “best talkers” of the animal kingdom.

Parrotlet red flags to look out for

Flaky skin/beak

Wheezing-like sound

Teary and/or swelling around the eyes

Sores on the feet, which prevents the parrotlet from walking on both feet

A loss of feathers, either due to plucking or natural causes

Change in eating/drinking habits

A parrotlet singing video to enjoy

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How Much Does a Moluccan Cockatoo Cost?

The Moluccan cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis), which originated from Indonesia, is considered to be one of the largest white cockatoo species, ranging in size based on the region it came from.

Rosy pink in color, the Moluccan, like most cockatoos, are very sensitive and can become quite agitated and upset when neglected by its owner.

Highly coveted as a pet, this bird, while rare in the wild, can commonly be found among various breeders located in the United States.

“Moluccan Cockatoo” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by cuatrok77

The average Moluccan cockatoo price

The cost of a Moluccan cockatoo, as with any bird adoption, will greatly vary on the breeder, the bird’s age, quality and where the breeder resides.  From our research, the average cost of a high quality, weaned bird can range anywhere from $1,700 to $3,000.  These birds can either be found at an avian-specialty store, via a bird breeder or, if locally available, an avian rescue organization.

BirdsNow.com, a popular birds-only classified website, had close to 75 active listings at the time of this writing, with the prices ranging from $1,800 to $3,000.

Singing-wings-aviary.com notes an unweaned Moluccan cockatoo can cost about $1,700, whereas a weaned bird can cost close to $2,200.

The additional costs to budget for

Housing requirements

These birds, when compared to other species, will require a larger-than-average cage so it can fly from one side to another with ease.  At a minimum, this cage should be, at a minimum, 2 feet x 2 feet x 3 feet, but the larger the better.  The metal bar spacing should be at least an inch thick, and a metal grate should be placed beneath the cage to allow the dropping to be seperated from the food and water to avoid contamination.  The cage should be kept from the direct sun, and owners should ensure a moderate temperature is set at all times.  Avoid any plastic or weaker material-based cages as these birds will be able to peck away at the material over time.

Inside the cage should include a variety of perches, at least six inches long and a variety of toys to keep it mentally stimulated throughout the day.  These toys can include chewing toys, food toys, puzzles, ropes and swings.  If there’s not enough in terms of interaction, this can lead to feather plucking and destruction in general.

Outside of the cage, while optional, a jungle gym should be considered, equipped with toys and a larger perch.  Wherever you place a cage, you will want to consider a spot where your family spends most of its time.

Feeding requirements

The Moluccan cockatoo feeds on a high-quality pellet diet, along with vegetables, grains, sprouts, dietary supplements and a general variety of finely chopped fruits and vegetables.  Nuts and seeds are fine as long a fed in moderation.  BeautyofBirds.com state that captive birds often feed on a parrot mix which contains nuts, seeds, dried fruits and vegetables.  Additionally, they need to be fed fruits, vegetables and branches with leaves to keep them entertained.

Moluccan cockatoo facts

Like most cockatoo species, the females will often have reddish irises as opposed to the male’s black eyes.  Females, when compared to the males, will also have a smaller size.

As for noise, this bird is known to be one of the loudest captive birds, not making it a great choice for those who reside in an apartment or condo.  It will tend to scream for no reason, whether it’s happy or afraid, and is willing to outscream any other bird.  While they are not considered great talkers, they do mimic a few words.

This highly sensitive and emotional bird can often go into a deep depression if seperated from its partner and/or doesn’t receive the attention/compassion it desires.

Sizes range from 17 to 20 inches, with a wingspan extending as long as 42 inches.  The weight varies from one to three pounds.

The birds originated from the Southern Moluccan Islands and Eastern Indonesia.

In good health, it’s not uncommon to see these birds live 50 to 75 years.

This bird craves a lot of attention, and by attention, we mean three to four hours a day.  A successful owner should be prepared to constantly play, handle and entertain the bird throughout the day to offer it the stimulation it requires.  As they are not great at playing alone, it will need your attention and constantly ask for it in order to be happy, making it ideal for a bird owner who tends to be a homebody.  Due to the attention it desires, it isn’t suitable for a majority of those looking to own a pet bird.

Due to the aggression the bird can show, it’s highly recommended you keep them caged on their own as they have been known to keep their mates with their powerful beaks.

Health concerns

Some common health concerns the bird is susceptible to includes feather disease, fatty liver disease, lipoma, bumblefoot or psittacine beak disease.  If not provided enough mental stimulation, it is not uncommon to find the bird plucking away at its feathers.

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How Much Does a Lorikeet Cost?

The lorikeet, also referred to as the lory, will have a wavy-edge beak and a unique tongue with “brushes” to gather juices, nectar or pollen.

While there is scientific differences between a lorikeet and lories, the only difference among the 55 different species, are the tail lengths, with the lories having a slightly shorter tail than the lorikeet.

These active, playful and extremely friendly birds, come in a variety of colors, including the red mollucan, rainbow nape and the goldies lorikeet to name a few.

“lorikeet” (CC BY 2.0) by zombieite

The average lorikeet prices

The cost of a lorikeet will greatly depend on the breeder, where the breeder lives, the mutation/quality/colors, rarity and the age of the bird.  Most hand-raised, weaned lorikeets, regardless of the species, will range anywhere from $250 to more than $750+.

At BirdsNow, an online birds-only classified website, they had close to 40 active listings at the time of this publishing, with prices ranging from $250 to $650.

Burke’s Backyard notes the prices of the bird can greatly vary from as little as $50 to more than $6,500.

The extra costs to budget for

Dieting requirements

A well-balanced diet should consist of a high-quality nectar and/or specialized pellet diet, supplemented with fruit baby food, fortified seeds and a small amount of finely chopped fruits and vegetables.  Any unconsumed fresh vegetables or fruit should be discarded after two hours.  Online and at most pet stores, you can find commercial brands of both wet nectar and dry pollen lorikeet feeds.

As with any captive bird, fresh water should be available at all times and should be changed at least twice a day.

Always avoid feeding your bird any avocado, chocolate, sugary treats, anything high in fat, caffeinated products or fruit seeds as these food items can cause serious health conditions.

Housing requirements

A habitat, the larger the better, should be, at a minimum, 24″W x 24″D x 30″H, according to Petco.  The metal bars should be spaced no more than a half inch apart and a flight habitat, while optional, is highly recommended.

Inside the cage should include a variety of perches, at least six inches long, and a good choice of toys.  The perches can help the bird exercise its feet and even avoid arthritis in the future.  The toys can help provide daily stimulation and avoid the bird from becoming bored.  When purchasing any perches or toys, always make sure they are free of lead, lead-based paints, zinc and galvanized parts as these materials can cause medical problems.

On the bottom of the cage should include a metal crate, lined with a substrate, to help capture any bird droppings and keep it away from its food and water to avoid any contamination.

The cage, including the toys, substrate and perches, should be replaced and cleaned at least twice a week.  If the toys or perches appear to be damaged, then it’s a good idea to replace them.

Temperament

Most lorikeets are very outgoing in nature, but some species may be more aggressive than the next as they tend to be very territorial.  As pets, they can be considered the best choice for a beginner since they are easier to handle and do not need as much human companionship when compared to other captive birds.  Lorikeets are considered to be very intelligent, highly trainable and can even speak a few words.  When in groups, it’s not uncommon to hear sharp shrieks and chatterings among the group.

Lorikeet facts

The average adult size, when mature, measures five to 12 inches long from head to the end of the tail, but this size will greatly vary depending on the exact lorikeet species.

Its lifespan, when in captivity, can range from 13 to 23 years with proper care and dieting, depending on the species.  Good hygiene and a clean surrounding can all increase its lifespan.

All lorikeets, regardless of the species, are herbivores.

Species will range in color, from a red to green, black and blue, with many having multi-colored feathers.

Signs of a healthy lorikeet

Active, very playful and alert

Eats and drinks constantly throughout the day

Eyes, when examined up close, appear to be dry and lively

Body, including the legs, beak and feet, appears to be normal

Feathers appear to be well-groomed and in good condition

Red flags to look out for

An unhealthy beak, often swelling and/or accumulations

Feathers, when examined closely, are plucked, fluffed and/or soiled in appearance

Doesn’t appear to be active, often looking depressed or sitting sadly on the floor of the cage

Stool isn’t solid; instead, it’s runny and discolored

A sign of limping when moving about

Discharge-appearance from the eyes

Swollen eyes

Isn’t eating and/or drinking as it should

The most common health issues

Chlamydiosis – Symptoms often include fluffed, feathers, a nasal discharge and/or appetite loss.  Seek immediate attention if any of these symptoms occur.

Psittacine beak and feather disease – Symptoms include an abnormal feather color, loss of feathers and/or an abnormal beak.  Seek immediate attention if any of these symptoms occur.

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How Much Does a Little Caesars Franchise Cost?

Noted as the fastest growing pizza chain from 2008 to 2015 based on the net number of stores added, Little Caesars, an international brand and household name, has come a long way since it opened its very first store in Detroit, Michigan, in 1959, with the first franchise opening in 1962.

Today, Little Caesars, according to its official website, is currently seeking franchisees who are looking to help bring the famous HOT-N-READY® pizza brand nationwide.

“Little Caesars window wrap” (CC BY 2.0) by MrBigCity

How much does a Little Caesars franchise cost?

The costs of a Little Caesars franchise, as there are so many variables, can greatly vary.  From our research, the costs, when all of the initial investment is considered, can range from $275,000 to more than $1 million.  Little Caesars asks, at a minimum, that you need to have a minimum of $100,000 in liquid assets and a net worth greater than $250,000 to secure financing to open your new location.  The official website notes the average carryout location can range from $334,000 to $1,370,500, with the higher-range stores typically in a free-standing building, not a strip mall.

Take a look at our table below to see what the average fees could cost you:

The cost of a franchise can greatly vary, but CNN Money notes the startup costs are between $193,050 to $619,500 and a new owner, at a minimum, should have a net worth of at least $150,000 and $50,000 cash, with any remaining funds being able to be financed.  In its 10 great franchise bets, CNN noted that out of 103 SBA-backed loans, only one loan failed.

Franchise Direct, on the other hand, states, the estimated total can range anywhere from $334,000 on the low end to as high as $1.3 million on the high end.

The other fees to consider

Aside from the initial costs, which are mentioned in the table above, prospective franchisees have to also consider the ongoing fees, which include royalties, advertising, purchases and so on.  Taken from the FDD of Little Caesars, we broke down the other fees in the table below and are accurate as of 2017:

The application process

You will be asked to submit an application along with the supporting documents.

After the documents are received, corporate will review your application.  If you do meet the qualification, you will then be sent a Franchise Disclosure Document, which will assist you with the due diligence process and help make a decision if purchasing a franchise makes sense.

After you sign the Franchise Disclosure Document, a licensed adviser will then contact you and schedule a “Discovery Day” and interview.  After your interview completes, you will then be notified later on if you were approved to become a franchisee.

Once you’re approved, you will submit your deposit, attending a real estate training class and choose a site for your future store.

After you pick out a location, you will then attend a six-week in-store operations training program, where you will learn the process of successfully running a store.

Upon completion of training and constructing your new location, you can successfully start to run your store.  From start to finish, the entire process can take 100 to 365 days.

Is the $5 HOT-N-READY® pizza profitable for franchisees?

According to Smart Money, the franchisees, when factoring in labor, food, rent and utilities, many reported making close to $0.90 for every $5 pizza sold.  According to one franchise operator, the ingredients and packaging retail for about $3.50 and this doesn’t include the rent, labor or utilities, which can another $0.60 to every pizza sold.  A spokeswoman for the company says the figures can greatly vary from one franchise owner to the next.

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How Much Does a Lady Bird Deed Cost?

If you’re looking for ways to avoid probate for your house, then you may come across something known as a “Lady Bird” deed or also known as an enhanced life estate deed.  This name came from the Lyndon B. Johnson era when President Johnson deeded his property to his wife, Lady Bid Johnson.

This method offers a simple, inexpensive way to transfer your real estate after your death without going through probate.

This deed, as per Nolo.com, is often ideal for those who think they may need Medicaid in the future as it will help preserve your eligibility and home because, without it, the state could take your home to repay the Medicaid benefits you received throughout your life.

While the deed may sound great for your circumstances, do keep in mind that is available in a limited number of states:  Florida, Michigan and Texas as of 2018.

How much does it cost to get a Lady Bird deed?

The cost of a Lady Bird deed will greatly vary depending on your circumstances/complexity, the lawyer you work with and where you live.  Some attorneys, for example, may draft a Lady Bird deed for a flat fee, whereas another attorney may charge based on your circumstances.  From what we researched, however, the costs could greatly vary as with any attorney-related fees, but for the most part, be prepared to spend anywhere from $150 to $350 plus the recording fees, which, depending on the state you live in, can be an additional $xx.

Sabina Tomshinsky, a tenant lawyer based in Gainesville, Florida, stated the costs could range anywhere from $100 to $200 plus the recording fee and other miscellaneous costs on Avvo.com.  Another lawyer who replied stated anyone who is interested in this type of deed should call a few property or real estate attorneys in their area to see what their fees are, but be prepared to have varying answers as there is no “set” pricing structure.

What is a Lady Bird deed?

A Lady Bird deed is a way to transfer your ownership to someone else outside of probate while still retaining your life inside your home.  But unlike a regular estate, this type of deed allows you to have the power to retain control of your property throughout your life, including the rights to profit from and sell at any time you wish.  This type of deed is beneficial in a few ways.  For starters, if you wanted to apply for Medicaid, an applicant cannot transfer property within five years of the application, but in the case of a Lady Bird deed, you can retain control of your property and it may not count as an asset for Medicaid eligibility in some states.  In some circumstances, it can also help avoid estate recovery as the state will no longer be able to file a claim to recover benefits from the recipient’s estate.

What do you need to provide to your attorney?

the Deed

the names, addresses and marital status of the Grantor(s) and Grantee(s)

the latest Will and Testament

any known copies of any recorded Liens

a recent appraisal and/or tax appraisal on the real estate

The advantages of a Lady Bird deed

You will be able to avoid any probate for your home after death.

You maintain the right to use and profit from your property during your lifetime.  You can also sell at any time without the approval of the beneficiaries.

You will not have to “gift” your home, which may be subjected to the federal gift tax.

You won’t have to risk your Medicaid eligibility.

You won’t have to worry about the state selling your property to help repay the Medicaid benefit costs you incurred over your lifetime.

You won’t have to change your house insurance as compared to a trust.

There are no transfer taxes as per MichiganLandMan.com.

The disadvantages of a Lady Bird deed

If your goal was to pass the property onto multiple heirs after death, then this deed may cause disputes, according to Mika Meyers.  If this is the case, then a living trust may need to be considered.

Those who own multiple properties may find it harder to amend a Lady Bird deed as compared to one trust.

The property deed is a countable asset for Medicaid purposes unless it is exempt.

There will be no control after death unless it was conveyed to a trust.

In some cases, ReneeWoodLaw.com mentions those who are unfamiliar with them may misclassify them.

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How Much Does an AC Recharge Cost at Jiffy Lube?

Jiffy Lube®, a popular franchised-owned automotive service center, offers air conditioning recharge services at some of its locations.  To ensure that your local location does, it is best to call ahead to confirm the prices and the availability.

According to the official website, a vehicle without A/C can be sweaty and uncomfortable, and a properly working A/C can keep everyone in the car cool during those uncomfortable months.

During an A/C recharge, Jiffy Lube® technicians will assess the interior climate control issues and are considered to be highly trained in A/C recharging and evacuation.

“jiffy lube take customer service serious” (CC BY 2.0) by Consumerist Dot Com

The average Jiffy Lube A/C recharge cost

The costs of an air conditioning recharge at a local Jiffy Lube will greatly depend on the location as they are all independently owned by a franchise and the current promotion being held.  From what we researched, a straightforward A/C recharge, without any other repairs, could cost anywhere from $89 to $149.  In some cases, coupons are available which can help you save up to 20%.

A member on this AcuraZine.com forum thread, for example, claimed he was charged $119.95 for the service, but one member who replied said you could simply buy a bottle of R134A for less than $25 and do the job on your own, even without experience.

On this forum thread on JeepForum.com, a member claimed he worked at Jiffy Lube and they will charge about $89 but a $20 off coupon is readily available most of the time.  Even after the recharge, most locations will offer a 30-day warranty as well.

The process

Before your air conditioner is even recharged, a technician will first discuss the symptoms you’re experiencing and visually inspect the compressor drive belt, serpentine belt and all of the vehicle’s components for any leaks, damages and/or cracks.

Then, after this visual inspection, he or she will check the air conditioning compressor to ensure no damage is noted.  As long as no leaks and damage are found, then the refrigerant will be evacuated from the system, followed by a vacuum test and lastly, the system will be recharged using the appropriate amount of refrigerant according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

If, by chance, any leaks or damage is present, then they will not recharge the unit; instead, they will recommend the next course of action, whether it is a new unit, compressor or related part.

The recharge, if done properly, will help improve the cooling efficiency and even preserve the life of your car’s air conditioner.

How to save money at Jiffy Lube

Search online for coupons as to what we researched, they are readily available.  For example, on the official website, you can search for a location nearby and see the available coupons at the time.  When we did a search, we were able to find a 10% off and $5 off coupons for multiple locations.

Many locations often offer discounts .

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