Good press: Full steam ahead

Good press: Full steam ahead  

An iron is an iron is an iron? Not any more. Like all domestic appliances, the world of irons too has been transformed. Ironing is longer a tedious chore with these steaming hotties,  
Shopping for a suitable iron is not easy: Steam or dry? With automatic shut-off or without? Do we really need the spray function, and the many fabric settings? Cordless or with a retractable cord perhaps? Does self-clean really work? Before deciding on a brand and model, here are a few things to ask you.
Do you iron only when you have to — perhaps when the dhobi’s sloppy job needs improving upon, or for a last-minute press before dressing for work or a party? Then what you need is different from a home where heavy-duty ironing of every garment, including linen, bed-sheets, table cloths and pillow covers happens regularly. Is it for a college-going offspring or for a frequent business traveler who lives (and dresses) our of a suitcase?

De-clutter and organise

De-clutter and organise

Tackle your ‘just in case’ mindset”, if you have managed to live (happily) without the old boxes full of odds and ends for the last five years, chances are you’re not going to miss them if they disappear from your home! Space is shrinking as we go into the new millennium - it’s vital that we learn to break free of excess. The good news is you don’t need rocket science to organise your living spaces — just follow some simple steps on a regular basis, and watch your home and your life fall in order.
 

MONEY TALK

MONEY TALK
BUSINESS IN THE HOUSE

Cooperative:- This is a corporation organised and controlled by members, who pool resources. Some quick tips to get you started:
1. Check with a CA, who will tell you how to clear the legalities and maintain records. He will also set your tax situation in order from day one.
2. Work out a laundry list: space; manpower; monetary inputs (for present and future loans); time away from family; budget for losses; and how long you will give yourself to judge whether it’s worth continuing.
3. Your venture must interest you, but you must start it only if you already have basic skills in that direction — it’s best not to try and learn on the job. Remember, the owner is you! (more…)

BUSINESS IN THE HOUSE

BUSINESS IN THE HOUSE

Can you start a home business or will there be cumbersome legalities? A short ready-reckoner.
Generally, there are four types of home businesses:
Sole proprietorship this is an informal, inexpensive proposition, owned by one person. You’re personally responsible for debts and can transfer all or part of the business, and report profit or loss on personal income tax returns. This requires a Permanent Account Number (PAN) and current account under your name or your company’s. This comes in handy in future if you require a loan for ex-pension. Loans are sanctioned on the basis of your company’s turnover, profitability and income tax returns. Partnerships In this, two or more co-owners engage in business for profit. A partnership deed on stamp paper has to be registered in court. Corporation this is a legal entity that is separate from its owners, the shareholders. No shareholder is personally liable for debts, obligations or acts of the corporation. ‘

Fighting Lizards

Fighting Lizards

• Keep egg shells on window sills.
• Put chalk lines across entry points.
• Stick cottonwool smeared with white toothpaste near light fixtures.