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Morning Motivation – Week of December 3, 2018

Posted on by cvargas

Can you believe that it is December already? I feel like this year has just barely begun! Let’s start this month of festivity off with some words of wisdom:

Did you read my post last week about using your hands during presentations? This week, I have another point to make along those same lines.

If we have ever been in the same space, you know that I am a “handshaker” and “hugger” and when I shake someone’s hand I will often tap them on the elbow to show my warmth to them. When I do this with my wife present, however, she always warns me that not everyone likes to be touched, Do you mind it if someone you know touches you on the elbow as they shake your hand and say hello?

Now let me ask you this – when you speak to a group of people, are you an anchorperson or a weatherperson?

Let me explain… when we speak, we have a choice between being an “anchorperson” or “weatherperson.”  As we all know from watching the news, an anchorperson sits stock still at a desk, rarely using their hands, while weatherpersons wave their hands and arms about broadly to indicate weather patterns on a map. If you are reading this post it is highly unlikely that you are in sales, are an entrepreneur or solopreneur, that you were auditioned for your position, or that you were hired because of your skills. If instead you were hired on the basis of the personality you presented during your interview and vetting process, then that personality was your natural style and you should stick with it.

Next week I plan to talk about the status of the insurance industry, and how it’s not on its deathbed like some people would have us believe. It’s going to be a good one, so don’t miss it!

Carlos

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Surviving Winter in Your Boston Home or Condominium

Posted on by cvargas

Winter is in full swing once again here in the Boston area. What are your favorite winter activities? We want to share some tips for staying warm, healthy and happy this winter in your home, apartment or condo. Choose one or try them all! Hopefully they can make your winter a little more joyous.

How to Stay Warm

The average low temperature in Boston for winter months is easily below freezing, so staying warm can be a challenge. Before you crank up the heat, check to ensure that the cold air is staying outside where it should be. This is best done with energy efficient (and non-draft-prone) windows and doors. See about refitting your home’s windows and doors if you are falling victim to drafts – these will cost you money year-round, cooling your home in the winter and heating it in the summer.

Do you have a programmable thermostat? Setting it to 68 degrees will heat your home while also conserving energy, according to ready.gov. Make sure to lower it by 10 or more degrees at night, though, to save approximately 10% on your heating bill. Also see if you can close the heat vent and shut the door to any unused rooms in your home or condo to cut your heating costs even further. It is also prudent to ensure that you have a back-up heat source in case of a power loss.

How to Stay Healthy

During the winter, more people stay indoors, and this means an increased number of germs in your home, apartment, or condo. Stay healthy by getting a flu shot if you can, and by washing your hands often. Also, regularly disinfect the surfaces of your home that are touched often. Just in case someone in your household falls ill, have the necessary medical supplies on hand so that you don’t have to make a rushed trip to the pharmacy.

Staying healthy in the winter also means finding the opportunity to exercise. Not many people want to go for an outdoor jog in the middle of winter in Boston, but there are plenty of alternatives that will keep you fit until the warm weather returns. Many people will choose to exercise at their local gym, where cardio and weight equipment are available year-round. Some gyms in the area also offer indoor pools and/or fitness classes that can keep your exercise routine fresh and new. There are also plenty of options available for people that would rather exercise at home, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money on expensive equipment.

If you would rather continue to get your exercise out in the fresh air, choose an appropriate wintertime activity. Ice skating can be a great cardio workout, you can also try something more off-the-wall, like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Just make sure that you are dressed appropriately, and that you take plenty of breaks from the cold and that you stay hydrated as you work out outside.

How to Stay Happy

As we mentioned, the cold weather of the winter often means spending more time indoors. For some people this can lead to wintertime blues and boredom. Instead of being unhappy that you must spend so much time inside, try to be thankful for the extra time in your cozy home. Get your family together to play a board game, binge watch a tv show that looks interesting, cook up a new recipe, or check something off your reading list.

Need to get out of the house? You’re in luck! There are lots of activities in the Boston area in the winter, so you don’t need to feel like you’re cooped up – even when the city is blanketed in snow! Family activities are especially popular this time of year, including the Holiday Bricktacular at Legoland Discovery Center, Santa Saturdays at the Franklin Park Zoo, and Snowmazing! at the Boston Children’s Museum, among many others.

A few more favorites from the agents here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency include seeing The Nutcracker at the Boston Ballet, catching a Holiday Pops performance at the Boston Symphony Hall, and seeing the Christmas trees at Faneuil Hall and the Boston Common. There are plenty of events happening in the area, so bundle up and have some fun out in the city to ward off the boredom often brought by the cold weather.

We also want to make sure that you know that Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency is here for all your home, renters, and condo insurance needs this winter (and all year-round). If you want to have a chat about your current insurance policies, or if you have an insurance question, all you have to do is call us at 617-298-0655. One of our friendly and knowledgeable agents will be happy to take care of you!

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Morning Motivation – Week of November 26, 2018

Posted on by cvargas

Hello friends! I hope that you had a great weekend and Thanksgiving holiday and that you are ready for an amazing week! Did you enjoy reading my email last week about my ongoing Daily Video project?

You know that I LOVE to start each week with some positive words, and this week’s are:

It’s funny, I read the above quote the week before I was one of the speakers at an independent insurance agents meeting in Michigan, and it sent shivers up my spine.  I practiced my 45 minute presentation for almost a week, and guess what? I still went off script!

Here is something else that I was thinking about before my presentation as I was watching the two speakers on stage after me using their hands to describe their presentation: Many of us talk with our hands, right?

Some people have the tendency to be really dramatic and use their hands to describe in detail what they are saying, and some people don’t use their hands at all. Which camp are you in?

When presenting, I often ask myself “What should I do with my hands?” I have been cautioned against choreography; I’ve seen some presenters attempt to illustrate their talk with specific gestures and wind up tying themselves into knots, or worse, looking weird and fake. I have found that I use my hands and arms how I would naturally, to illustrate what I am saying, it feels natural to me and takes the extra pressure off of me while I am up on stage. I do try to extend my hands and arms periodically, trying to bridge the gap between the audience and me, as AT&T used to say “Reach Out” with your hand in handshake position.

As you watch presentations, do you ever notice how a speaker is using their hands, and whether it’s adding to or detracting from their presentation? I would love to know!

Until next week,

Carlos

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Recap: Cancelling Auto Insurance

Posted on by cvargas

“My mom sent me money for a car, but the cops impounded it because I had no insurance.” – Martin Henderson

Have you been considering cancelling your Massachusetts auto insurance policy? There are many reasons why this may seem like a good idea, including if you are getting rid of the car, taking the car off the road for extended maintenance, or if you are going through a major life event like marriage or divorce.

The issue arises when you apply for your next insurance policy. When deciding on your premium amount, insurance providers consider many factors – one of which is sometimes whether you have cancelled a policy in the past. This means that cancelling a current policy could affect your rates in the future!

Here at Vargas and Vargas Insurance, we also want to make sure that you also never drive without auto insurance. Even a seemingly simple fender bender can result in a lot of money in repairs, let alone a multi-car accident with serious injuries.

So, if you’re thinking about cancelling your auto insurance for any reason, first call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655. We can help you analyze your situation and tell you how your decision will affect your future insurance premiums. We may even be able to help you come up with an alternate solution that will be better for your situation.

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Morning Motivation – Week of November 19, 2018

Posted on by cvargas

Happy Thanksgiving, friends!

Are you ready for another one of my famous motivational quotes?

If you happened to catch my post from last week about giving a keynote speech to a mastermind group of plumbers, A/C, and heating specialists here in Boston, you will know that giving presentations used to be way out of my comfort zone. Pushing limits seems to be a theme of this year (and of my life in general). Here is another example of how I am constantly testing my own limits:

What seems like a long time ago, I was double dared by one of the professionals that I have been coaching. She said “Instead of posting a daily inspirational quote, do it in video form!” She told me she dared me to do daily videos for one year.

Well, I never stand down from a challenge, never mind a double dare, so I started shooting a daily positive affirmations on March 6th, and am currently over 200 days toward my goal. You can watch all of them here.  

I have learned from this new daily routine that I have become really great at video editing (check out my first few videos compared to the more recent ones) and that I LOVE my daily routine of finding a subject and then shooting a video. I usually start the process around 6AM and it’s a great way to begin my day in a positive manner and keep it positive.

Have a self-kind and FANTASTIC week ahead! And make sure you check your inbox next Monday to hear about a question that I had during my latest presentation to a group of independent insurance agents.

Carlos

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Recap: Post-Thanksgiving Sales

Posted on by cvargas

“Whoever said money can’t buy happiness simply didn’t know where to go shopping.” – Bo Derek

Once the turkey and stuffing have been devoured, it will be time to start planning your post-Thanksgiving shopping ventures. Do you plan to brave the crowd of Black Friday, support the community on Small Business Saturday, or shop from the comfort of your home on Cyber Monday?

No matter whether you’re doing your shopping in one day or spreading it out, there are a few things that you can do to make your job less hectic. The first and most important is to make a list of the things that you’re looking to buy. Shopping without a list is a practically guaranteed way to buy things that you don’t need and miss items that you could have used. If you’re purchasing gifts, make a list of who you’re buying for and what you could get them, as well as your budget for each person. As you shop, you can check off your list knowing that you’ve saved a bunch by buying when the items were on a deep discount!

Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency is a great place to support local businesses all year round. We are a local independent insurance agency that offers Boston residents excellent home insurance, renters’ insurance, car insurance, and beyond. Call 617-298-0655 or visit our website for a free quote today!

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Cancelling Auto Coverage Can Affect Future Rates

Posted on by cvargas

Most of the time, car insurance is a ‘set it and forget it’ purchase. Once you have a policy, you can schedule the payments and rest easier knowing that you will be covered for all the perils listed on your policy. Sometimes, however, it is necessary to consider cancelling your policy.

The reasons that people cancel their auto insurance are plentiful. Some cancellations are due to the covered car being sold or pulled off the road for extended maintenance, others are due to major life events such as moving, marriage, or divorce. Some people will cancel their current auto insurance policy because they are dissatisfied with their current insurance provider and want to make a change. No matter what the reason is that you are considering cancelling a current insurance policy, you shouldn’t make the decision lightly – what some people don’t realize is that cancelling your current policy could have repercussions on your future insurance premiums!

Why would it affect your future insurance payments, you ask? Well, that is simple. When you sign up for an insurance policy, you agree to pay a certain amount depending on how long you will receive coverage. The price for a six-month policy is usually more expensive per month than a twelve-month policy because you get a discount based on the extra commitment of a longer contract. This is like saving per ounce or pound at the grocery store when buying larger sizes of food items – the bigger your commitment, the less you pay per unit.

Because of this, insurance providers will sometimes look at your insurance history when deciding on your next premium amount. If they see that you have prematurely cancelled a policy in the past, they may be more likely to increase your cost – since your history reveals that you could need another early cancellation, making you a payments risk for their bottom line.

It is also worth noting that you should never drive a vehicle that is uninsured. Not only are you required to have auto insurance when driving in the state of Massachusetts, driving without insurance is a huge financial risk. Could you imagine the financial impact of causing a car accident without any kind of coverage? The costs to repair your vehicle could be very expensive, let alone fixing damage to the object you ran into (whether it is another car, a mailbox, etc). The cost of an accident also skyrockets when someone is injured, if they miss work, or if there is a lawsuit. Think about these potential costs before you get behind the wheel without any insurance!

Remember – you never think when you’re heading to work or going to run a quick errand that you will get in a major car accident, but it can happen to anyone at any time. There are estimated to be an average of 6 million car accidents in the US every year, and more than 90 people are killed in car accidents every day. In 2016 alone there were 359 fatal crashes in the state of Massachusetts. In addition to letting Vargas and Vargas Insurance make sure that you have the proper auto insurance policy to be protected on the road, make sure that you know the potential perils of driving while distracted, and don’t speed or drive while intoxicated. Driving is a privilege, and you are responsible for the safety of yourself and other drivers while you operate a vehicle.

If you are considering cancelling your auto insurance (or any of your Massachusetts insurance policies) for any reason, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency and talk to an agent. They will be able to explain any and all repercussions that may arise because of a cancelled policy and can advise you on your decision, and potentially come up with an action plan that will fit your needs. Remember – one quick call to 617-298-0655 can get all your insurance questions answered, so don’t stress… talk to a Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent today.

Already cancelled an auto insurance policy and looking for a new one? Vargas and Vargas Insurance is an independent insurance agency – that means that we can search several insurance providers to find you a great policy, even if you have cancelled a policy in the past. No matter your insurance needs, we will find some way to help you and ensure that you are protected, so call 617-298-0655 today.

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Morning Motivation – Week of November 12, 2018

Posted on by cvargas

Happy Monday again, friends!

When was the last time you did something new or challenged yourself? That is the theme of the day, as we start with this week’s motivational quote:

I went WAY outside my comfort zone last month – I was the keynote speaker at a mastermind group of plumbers, A/C and heating folks from around the country that met in Boston. You can watch the video here, if you like.  If you knew me 5 years ago, you would say “That’s not Carlos! He does one-on-ones well, but in a group or even standing up in front of a group, no way. He will never do it.”  Well, after hundreds of presentation to real estate, mortgage and closing attorneys over the past 5 or 6 years, I stood up in front of this huge group and talked about community marketing and getting freedom in business while the telephone rings with quality people who want to use their business. I also talked about how these people could spend more time doing what they want to do with the people that they love. (Do you want the same thing?)

The presentation went well (as you can see at the end of the video), and the high that I walked away with after the presentation lasted into the next day. When I walked into the house my wife Kathy asked how my presentation went, then she said “I see how you are, you must have done well!” She said the next day, “You should do more of these, you are still floating on air.” For the last couple of years I have lived for presentations!

As I talked about in my message last week, like when we learn how to ride a bike, play a new video game, or try a new marketing technique, you need to do it over and over and over again to master it. The more you can do that “new thing” to make it into a habit, the more it will truly stick and become a natural part of your life. When you try something, give it (and yourself) a fair chance. For example, say you want to try taking just one small step forward toward overcoming procrastination. If that is your goal, use you new trick each day for at least a week in school or at work before you evaluate whether it will work for you.

Thinking, hoping and expecting that positive results will come quicker than may be possible can hold you back from making real progress.

The question now is: In what aspects of your life do you want to improve? Stay tuned for my email next week to read about a challenge that I have been taking on in my life.

Carlos

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Winter Motorcycle Safety Considerations in Dorchester

Posted on by agentinsure

Cold weather in Massachusets comes early in the fall, so motorcyclists will be able to enjoy the fall foliage in the chilly air. When it changes to icy and even colder there are some safety considerations for drivers that must be considered. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance we want all drivers to be safe throughout our beautiful state. We deliver quality insurance to clients in Dorchester, MA and the surrounding areas. 

Winter Motorcycle Safety Tips

  • Wear your helmet. Helmets are required under Massachusets law, however, in the winter they offer more than a lifesaving exoskeleton. In the winter helmets protect your face and head from the extreme elements that your face can be exposed to on a normal daily ride. 
  • Layers are a necessity. Many bikers will wear motorcycle gear to protect their skin however in the winter a bit more is needed. Layers to hold your own warmth to your body on the underside in addition to the layers to block the icy wind on the outside can feel like a lifesaver in frigid months.
  • Handguards are needed in the winter months because riding gloves are not enough to block the brunt of the wind and thicker gloves can decrease your hand’s mobility putting yourself at risk while driving. 
  • The roads in winter also present their own hazards due to the ice patches, snow, and the salt used to melt the ice. These things can present safety hazards and affect the workings of your bike so driver beware of the road as well as yourself. 

Call us as Vargas & Vargas Insurance for quality motorcycle insurance, and remember to keep safe on the roads this winter while you travel in and around Dorchester, MA. 

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Recap: Hosting Thanksgiving Dinner

Posted on by cvargas

“Thanksgiving Day is a good day to recommit our energies to giving thanks and just giving.” – Amy Grant

Are you going to be hosting your family’s Thanksgiving this year? It’s never too early to start preparations, so here are a few things you can start to consider. Just think of them as advice from your favorite Massachusetts insurance agents!

  • Start working on your guest list and planning what dishes will be a part of your meal.
  • Account for any guests with food allergies or special dietary needs.
  • Review food safety tips to avoid food borne illnesses.
  • Make sure that your frozen turkey has enough time to thaw in the fridge or a cold-water bath.
  • Prepare some foods ahead of time to relieve some Thanksgiving Day stress.
  • Ensure that your home is free of tripping hazards to prevent a home insurance claim.
  • Have entertainment ready, including festive music, football, and Thanksgiving activities and games.
  • Make cleanup a breeze by soaking dishes as you perform other tasks.

In the end, remember that Thanksgiving is a holiday about togetherness and being grateful for what you have. If at the end of the day you have to order a pizza, it’s not the end of the world… it will be a great story for years to come!

If you need help with an insurance claim during the Thanksgiving holiday, call the Vargas and Vargas Insurance 24/7 emergency line at 617-322-5289. And, as always, you can call us at 617-298-0655 during regular business hours with your insurance questions or to get a free insurance quote.

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Ready to Shop? After Thanksgiving Sales are Coming!

Posted on by cvargas

Thanksgiving is next week, and that can only mean one thing – stores are getting ready for the after-Thanksgiving sale season! Bargain hunters will be ready to hit the road to take advantage of the savings opportunities at stores across the greater Boston area… will you be one of them?

As you plan out your Thanksgiving dinner, you can also start to plan your upcoming holiday shopping excursions. Make a list of who you’re shopping for, as well as some ideas for things that they might want or need. Then, you can figure out the perfect day to get them the right gift. You have three main options when it comes to getting a great deal:

Black Friday

Arguably the most well known of the Thanksgiving shopping holidays, Black Friday is when many big box retailers will offer significant savings on both small and big-ticket items. This makes it a perfect time for anyone looking for, for example, a new television to do some personal shopping. Many people also take the opportunity to make their gifting budget for the year stretch further with the significant savings. However, if you want to reap the benefits, you will have to put up with the drawbacks of shopping on Black Friday – namely, the massive crowds.

To get the most out of Black Friday, it is critical that you have a plan. Browse store advertisements to figure out which stores you want to visit, and plan your outing based on when they open – be careful, though, since some will start their sales on Thanksgiving afternoon and others will wait until the more traditional pre-dawn on Friday.

Small Business Saturday

A more recent addition to the post-Thanksgiving shopping lineup is Small Business Saturday. Only officially observed since 2010, this holiday of sorts is a celebration of the community-based businesses that we love here in the Boston area. In fact, it was here in Boston that the celebration started thanks to a partnership between American Express and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, as well as Boston Mayor Thomas Menino and Roslindale Village Main Street.

If you want to patronize your favorite small business on Small Business Saturday, snap a picture while you’re out and use the hashtag #shopsmall to tell your friends that you are choosing to support our local community as you make your holiday purchases. Spending your money at small local businesses is a great way to make sure that our community thrives, and that you are getting high quality products and great customer service from local business owners. At Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency we are dedicated to showing our support to the small businesses here in Dorchester – that’s why we pride ourselves on offering top of the line business insurance policies!

2018 Lower Mills Holiday Stroll

One of the best ways that you can celebrate Small Business Saturday here in Dorchester is by attending the Lower Mills Holiday Stroll. It is a favorite of the Vargas and Vargas Insurance staff every year. Local businesses that participate will offer hot cocoa, host giveaways, and much more!

So, if you’re free on November 24th from 4:30 until 7:30, consider dropping by. The trolley will be running up and down Dorchester Avenue and Adams Street all afternoon, and you might even be able to catch a glimpse of Santa Clause!

Cyber Monday

Quickly becoming one of the biggest shopping days of the year, Cyber Monday has been celebrated on the Monday after Thanksgiving since 2005. Last year (2017) people shopped online in record numbers on Cyber Monday, bringing in $3,364,000,000 – yes, that’s over 3 billion dollars – in sales.

Cyber Monday is a great time to cozy up at home in your pajamas and do lots of comparison shopping right from the comfort of your own home. If you want to take advantage of this year’s Cyber Monday sales, first make sure that you subscribe to the newsletter and follow on Social Media the retailers that you might buy from on Monday. You never know when they might offer extra savings or put a spotlight on a great deal that you could have otherwise missed.

Whether you choose to participate in one or all of these post-Thanksgiving shopping days, we hope that you get a great deal on what you purchase, and make sure that you stay tuned to our blog for more great winter and holiday tips, as well as advice on how to get 2019 off to a great start!

At Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency, you don’t need to wait until Thanksgiving to get a great deal on your insurance policies. Call 617-298-0655 to speak to a great Massachusetts insurance agent about your home insurance, auto insurance, and business insurance needs. No matter what type of insurance you need, we can get you a free quote at Thanksgiving and all year round.

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Morning Motivation – Week of November 5, 2018

Posted on by cvargas

I hope that you had a great weekend! Did you like my last motivational series about how to gain Freedom in your business?

As you know, I start every week with some positive words of wisdom and today’s are:

Today I’d like to share one mistake I used to make (especially when I first got started in sales and marketing). It was a mistake that held me back quite a bit from making progress and that dragged my self-esteem down.

That mistake was that I often tried something – like a personal development strategy or tip – once, twice or just a few times. I thought that would be enough to see results. I have since learned that this is not the case. These tips are not a light switch you can just hit once and then your life is different. Instead, i have learned that it often takes a whole bunch of tries. You may need to work on it for months (or even years!) to get something to work and start seeing results.

When it comes to trying something new, don’t be distressed if the road ahead seems tough. Resist the urge to lower your self-esteem and beat yourself up because something isn’t working for you and it works for others. You could start thinking that there must be something wrong with you when it works for so many other people in the world. Don’t continue on that downward spiral of being down on yourself. There’s nothing wrong with you! Just give what you’re trying out (and yourself) a bit more time.

Carlos

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Recap: Savings Account

Posted on by cvargas

“Do not save what is left after spending; instead spend what is left after saving.” ― Warren Buffett

Do you put some of your household’s money into a savings account every month? You would be surprised by how many Americans aren’t ready for a potential significant loss in income. Approximately 7 in 10 Americans would feel the weight of a loss of income in a month or less.

Most financial experts recommend that a person or family have at least three months’ (and up to six months’) worth of expenses in an interest-earning savings account to be ready for unexpected financial hardships. Savings above and beyond that amount should be in a retirement or investment account.

Check out our full blog post with more information, including detailed explanations of ways you could be saving more of your money, including:

  • Instituting a waiting period to avoid impulse purchases.
  • Tracking spending to identify savings opportunities.
  • Cutting back on unnecessary expenses.
  • Taking advantage of free entertainment in Boston.
  • Reducing or eliminating recurring expenses.

One easy place to save money is on your insurance policies! Call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655 to ask about how you could lower your insurance payments. While we’re chatting, let us recommend a financial advisor to you. With our help, you could be well on your way to bolstering your savings and being ready for any unexpected future expenses.

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Hosting the Perfect Thanksgiving Dinner

Posted on by cvargas

Thanksgiving is a time for celebration. No two families Thanksgiving festivities are the same, but most consist of some combination of good food and the joy of togetherness. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner for your family (whether that means two or two hundred people) you want it to be perfect. Here are some tips from the Vargas and Vargas Insurance staff on some of the best ways to make Thanksgiving 2018 the best one yet.

Start Preparations Now

Thanksgiving may be more than two weeks away, but that is no excuse for not preparing as much as you can in advance! The most important thing you need to do is make two lists: your guest list and your shopping list.

Choosing your guests can mean the difference between an intimate affair and a huge gathering. When you invite everyone, let them know when you would like to know whether they will commit to coming for dinner – after all, you will need to know how much food to have on hand!

When you choose the dishes you will make, you will need to consider a few things, including what you will ask your guests to bring (if anything) and whether there will be anyone with dietary restrictions or severe food allergies present. Otherwise, you will need to ensure that you have a wide variety of dishes that will please all palates. Many people choose to do a variety of plates with a mix of both traditional dishes and new additions to the Thanksgiving table.

Review Food Safety Tips

Before you even think about dealing with food this Thanksgiving, consider reviewing the basics of food safety – after all, you will be responsible for the continued health of all the people that you host, and the last thing you want is for your guests to get food poisoning!

Thaw the Turkey!

Don’t forget that if you purchase a frozen turkey, you will need to let it thaw fully prior to cooking. According to Butterball’s website, there are two ways to do this. The first is by submerging the wrapped turkey in cold water for 30 minutes per pound of weight. The second is to put the turkey into the fridge ahead of Thanksgiving Day, allowing 1 day of thawing for every 4 pounds of weight.

“Make and Freeze” Foods

Once you have all your recipes picked out and the shopping is done, it’s time to figure out how much of the Thanksgiving meal that you can make ahead of time. You might be surprised at how many things can be made a day or more ahead and then frozen. And they taste just the same when reheated as they did when they were fresh.

Foods that can be made ahead include rolls and even mashed potatoes and gravy. While you’re at it, remember that many ingredients can be chopped and measured ahead of time (think the celery for your stuffing) or made the day before and left on the counter overnight (pumpkin pie).

Before Guests Arrive

When the big day arrives, you’ve undoubtedly got a lot to do. Enlist some help if you can to check the following non-cooking activities off your list. First, make sure that your home (including the walkways outside) are well-lit and free of tripping hazards. You should also make sure that anything fragile is put out of sight, especially if you will have young kids around.

During the Gathering

Oftentimes, hosting Thanksgiving means much more than just serving a meal. People tend to come and hang out for most of the day, so you will need to provide them with entertainment. In addition to putting on some festive music and/or turning on the obligatory football game (the Patriots don’t play until Sunday, but the three Thursday games won’t disappoint), you can also break out family-friendly Thanksgiving-themed games and activities.

After-Party Cleanup

All your guests may have left, but the party isn’t over! You probably still have some cleaning up to do – after all, Thanksgiving tends to be a very messy holiday, especially in the kitchen. Instead of using excessive elbow grease, let tough dishes soak while you do other tasks like taking out the garbage and wiping down the table.

Do you have any more Thanksgiving tips that we missed? Leave a comment and tell us – we would love to hear your cheats, hacks, and secrets for hosting. And, as always, remember that Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency has all the secrets for the best home insurance in Boston. Call 617-298-0655 before Thanksgiving to make sure that your Massachusetts home insurance policy is ready to protect you and all your guests this holiday season.

Take the time now to do one more thing in preparation for the holidays: program the Vargas and Vargas Insurance 24/7 emergency line into your phone. It is 617-322-5289, and it is the best way to begin an insurance claim outside of our office hours.

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Morning Motivation – Week of October 29, 2018

Posted on by cvargas

Ready for this week’s words of wisdom? Here you go!

For the last several weeks, I have emailed you to discuss the steps that you can take to gain Freedom in your business. For a reminder of my tips, click here.

To recap, here are the three steps to freedom:

  1. Release yourself of tasks you don’t like doing
  2. Release yourself of tasks you don’t know how to do
  3. Release yourself of tasks you feel you shouldn’t be doing

To succeed:

  • Have desire
  • Overcome self-doubt
  • Push out of comfort zone
  • Learn and apply Pareto’s Law
  • Get help by hiring an assistant

Have you been implementing any of my advice into your daily routine? I would love to hear how it has been working for you!

If you need help getting started and want to see how you can do this in your business, let’s set up a strategy session so that I can answer any questions you may have and see if I can help your design your own roadmap.

To do so, click here: https://meetme.so/InsuranceAgencyFreedom

Look out for my email next week, when I will start my next Monday Morning email series all about how to try new things and push your personal limits in order to grow.

Carlos

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Is Motorhome Insurance Mandatory?

Posted on by agentinsure
A lot of families pack up their camper for a road trip during summer. It’s one of the best ways to travel and see the country with your family. But if you own or are considering getting a recreational vehicle, commonly referred to as an RV or a motorhome, you may be confused on whether or not you need a motorhome insurance. When it comes to motorhome insurance, many factors come into play and laws vary from one state to the next. 
 
In Massachusetts, for instance, you will be required to carry valid liability insurance to drive legally. But do you need a separate insurance for your camper or fifth wheel when driving on Massachusetts roads? Well, not necessarily. But the fact that you may not be legally obligated to carry motorhome insurance for your RV doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Dorchester MA, we can help you choose a motorhome insurance coverage that makes sense for your situation.
 
When Is Motorhome Insurance Required?
 
One critical factor that comes into play when it comes to deciding whether you need a separate motorhome insurance policy is the class of the RV. There are three major classes of RVs i.e. class A, B, and C. Class A motorhomes include long RVs such as luxury coaches. The small class of recreational vehicles are covered in class B and include camper vans, travel trailers, and cargo van type designs. 
 
Fifth wheels and other vehicles whose camper portions extend over the cab area are in Class C motorhomes. You definitely need a separate motorhome policy if you have a Class A or Class B motorhome. You may also need motorhome insurance if your RV is a rental or if you don’t own it outright. Find the right coverage for your camper or motorhome at Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Dorchester, MA. Give us a call if you need more information on motorhome insurance. 
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Recap: Small Business Winter Tips

Posted on by cvargas

“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness. ” – John Steinbeck

Is your Massachusetts small business prepared for the upcoming winter months? As colder weather arrives, look at our blog post with tips on how to keep your business running strong this winter and beyond. Here are just a few of the tips that we offered:

  • Stay on top of snow removal and take precautions to avoid slip and fall accidents in areas where customers and employees walk.
  • Prepare for flu season by stocking up on hand soap, sanitizer, and disinfectant. Encourage sick employees to stay home.
  • Be available for your customers when they need holiday gifts. Offer gift wrapping, gift cards, and other incentives.
  • Introduce your business to new customers by showing off your product at holiday fairs, trade shows, and other local winter events. Look for anything your customers might find interesting.
  • When the weather outside is frightful, stay home and focus on your business’s Social Media presence! Create an account or schedule posts for the accounts that already exist. You could also take the opportunity to get ahead on writing blogs!

And remember, at Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency we want to help Boston business owners to work more on their business rather than in their business. If you need help with this, or if you need a business insurance quote, call our office at 617-298-0655.

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Savings Account: Critical for Your Financial Success

Posted on by cvargas

Everyone wants to lead a successful life, but that means different things to different people. What does success mean to you? No matter the answer, you will likely need to have some money to get there – even if it’s just to pay for housing and food. In addition to having money to spend, you need to have some money saved… just in case there’s ever a low point in your life where you may need a financial boost.

Let’s face it, you never plan to have financial problems. Thankfully, there are two things that you can do to mitigate your risk. The first, as any Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent will tell you, is to have an up-to-date insurance portfolio. The right insurance can protect your home, your car, and even your health. The second thing that you can do is to have some money saved up for a ‘rainy day.’

Imagine this scenario: the family breadwinner loses their job. How long would you be able to pay your bills while you scrambled to replace the lost income? It is estimated that over 7 in 10 Americans would start to struggle after only one month. In fact, almost half of Americans would notice the deficit in two weeks!

It is recommended that a person have at least three months of expenses saved in case of an emergency. In fact, six months’ worth of expenses is preferred. This will ensure that you are ready for a financial emergency.

Let’s face it – what adult hasn’t ever had a large unforeseen expense (like a car repair or health-related expense)? Sure, most of these will be largely covered by your Massachusetts insurance policies, but you will need to have some money set aside to cover your plan’s deductible.

Consider this also: at what age would you like to retire? Are you saving at a pace that will get you to your goal in time? While it isn’t technically a savings account, a 401k or IRA is a crucial investment for your future and shouldn’t be put off. In fact, it is easy to see when the numbers are crunched that saving a little bit of money early in your life is worth much more than saving a lot later. This is because of the power of compound interest.

Do you feel like you don’t have enough money in your savings account? Here are a few tips to help you save more:

  • Stop making impulse purchases. When you find something that you want, wait at least 24 hours before buying it – you may find that in that time the urge to have it passes and you can put the money into your savings account instead.
  • Track your spending online. Whether you use your bank’s online portal or a safe third-party app, you should be keeping a close eye on your spending and identifying unnecessary expenditures so that similar purchases can be avoided in the future.
  • Identify your biggest area of opportunity. If you want to start saving more of your money, you will need to stop some of your spending. One of the areas where people can easily save is on food and dining. You can save quite a bit of money by buying fresh ingredients and cooking at home rather than going out to eat often.
  • Find free entertainment. Sure, you could spend money on going out, but there are plenty of ways to entertain yourself and your loved ones for free. Look for free events and activities in Boston, or just use something you’ve already bought.
  • Revisit your recurring expenses. Look at your bank account – specifically at your recurring expenses. See if any can be cancelled or parred back. Even your insurance premiums could be lessened. Ask a Vargas and Vargas Insurance agent to find out more.

It’s important to remember, though, that you shouldn’t necessarily have a humongous savings account. While there’s clearly an advantage to having a certain amount of cash available in a liquid form, once you get above a certain amount of savings you should put that money to work for you in investments. If you want some advice on the right threshold for you and your family, or of you have some investing questions, just call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency. We can recommend a great financial advisor that will be able to help you.

Are you ready to get yourself on the road to financial readiness? Whether you’re starting from nothing or evaluating your changing financial needs, you’re taking a step in the right direction. If you know of any high school or college students who may not yet realize the importance of having a nest egg, please share this blog post with them. And if you want to ensure that your insurance protection is ready to step in if there is a problem, call Vargas and Vargas Insurance Agency at 617-298-0655 for a free insurance review.

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Morning Motivation – Week of October 22, 2018

Posted on by cvargas

As you know, I try to start every week with some words of wisdom:

I have been talking about doing what makes you money and getting someone else (or don’t do the other tasks) you can read the past messages here.

There is the law called Pareto’s Law, Pareto’s Law goes like this:

  • 80% of effects come from 20% of causes
  • 80% of your income comes from 20% of your efforts
  • 80% of your headaches come from 20% of your clients and referral partners

Important to know so that you are doing the right 20%!

Pretty eye-opening, right?

So the question is, What is the exact 20% of your efforts that are producing the 80% of your income? If you don’t know the answer to that, don’t worry, it’s not your fault.  Most of us have not heard about this before or taken the time to go step by step through this. So that’s what we are going to do right now.

Start putting your focus on the highest leverage activities to grow your business, while keeping these statistics in mind:

  • We aren’t nearly as important as we think we are!
  • Our clients just want what they want, and they want it on time, they don’t care who does it

So, if you’re delegating tasks to your team, which money-making ones should you keep for yourself? Here are some examples. In my business, there are the highest paying activities:

  • Build referral partners that consistently feed your business
  • Office presentations
  • Meeting and deepening relationships with referral partners.

Next week, we will put together the last several week’s worth of messages to recap the Three Steps to Freedom, and how they will help you succeed.

Carlos

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