Archive for February, 2010

Now is the Time!

Thursday, February 25th, 2010

QwikBids Investigates – Brian M. Smith

Doubts in our economy have caused many problems and setbacks for consumers and businesses alike. 2009 was a difficult year indeed, as we witnessed record job-losses, businesses failing or cutting back and consumers spending much less. These things apply to us all, but there is much to rejoice about in 2010.

As our economy slowly makes its way back to recovery, the result is increased consumer spending. This spending is what fuels the engine for our valley businesses, and is vital to being successful with QwikBids.

QwikBids has hung in there, and the reward for patience is paying off.

Recent data tells us we are in recovery, and as we heal from the past 2 years of hardship, there will be an influx of consumer spending not seen since the recession began. Projects by homeowners and commercial businesses have been put off, and this year we project a large swell in bid requests to fulfill these needs as they come in larger numbers.

Now is the time to act!

Yes, it’s time to prepare for the inevitable consumer and business spending. No longer should service providers put off being in place to bid on projects in their respective professions. If it’s affordable, proven and easy to set up, coming aboard QwikBids just makes sense!

Take it from our own service providers.

John Wifler, owner of John’s Design and Tree Service, is playing it smart. Specializing in landscaping, tree care and irrigation systems, John realizes the importance of being ready and willing to take on additional projects to keep his crew busy. “Since joining QwikBids, I have been really busy, especially since December. People seem to feel a little safer about the economy and are now spending more money,” John states.

John says that he also landed a commercial job from a local college on QwikBids, and adds that the client was so happy with his services, they’ll be using his company again. In the beginning John rolled the dice with his marketing budget and joined QwikBids, and after his initial experience, it dawned on him just how valuable our services really are.

“I decided to sign up to QwikBids for an additional two years instead, as they gave me a discount on a special they have. It was a no-brainer. I’m now looking to expand my crew and invest more money in my business,” John says with confidence, adding, “Both door to door and word of mouth also work, but immediate results came with QwikBids.”

Getting involved with QwikBids is easy, economical ($399 per year; no hidden fees) and exposes registered users to ready-to-buy consumers. Set-up can be done online, but if assistance is needed, businesses are encouraged to contact customer service or arrange a visit to offices located in Scottsdale. Ask about specials that QwikBids offers to valley businesses as well.

Much is being accomplished to draw consumers to use this service, free of charge. It allows the consumer to remain anonymous if they wish, choose the best value for their needs and all from the comfort of their own home. What’s more, consumer confidence is high with QwikBids, as they know all service providers are verified for licensing (if it applies), insurance and reputation (references). These things are vital to consumers looking to spend their money again.

Lastly, QwikBids donates to charity when consumers leave feedback on a business that performed work for them. Giving back to the community is yet another incentive for consumers and service providers alike.

Again, we cannot express the importance of being prepared for the re-growth of our economy. Don’t put it off, visit QwikBids today. Now is the time!

Tricks to Brighten a Room

Wednesday, February 17th, 2010

by Amy Wolff, C.I.D.

 

Not everyone has the luxury of having large windows that let in lots of sunlight.  Many homes have at least one room that is continually dark.  A dark room can cause accidents, eye-strain, and even a poor disposition.  If you’d like to add more light to that room – without taking a sledgehammer to your walls, try a few of these room-brightening tricks.  A brighter room will lead to a brighter mood!

 

  • Paint your walls a light color, and use eggshell or semi-gloss paint.  Dark, matte finishes actually soak up the light, making the room seem darker – even when you put the lights on.  Lighter, glossier paints will reflect the light back into the room.

 

  • Keep your ceiling white.  We know it’s fun and fashionable to paint ceilings “anything but white.”  But in that very dark room, it’s amazing the difference that a white ceiling makes.  Just like dark walls, a dark ceiling will absorb a lot of the available light.

 

  • Add more lamps.  Yes, this seems obvious.  But many homeowners rely solely on overhead lights to illuminate a room.  Light needs to come from various levels – low, middle, and high.  Combining up-lights on the floor and lamps on tables around the room with overhead lighting will create a brighter, more comfortable room.

 

  • Hang large mirrors.  Large mirrors can act like windows, reflecting the light back into the room.

 

  • Choose reflective surfaces.  Just like walls, other large surfaces can absorb or reflect your light.  Opt for glossier furnishings, add glass to your framed artwork, and place mirrored trays on top of dark tables.  We are seeing more and more sophisticated metallics in paints and fabrics, too!

 

Light is important for your physical and mental health.  So make sure your home is getting all the light you need!

 

Amy Wolff, CID, is nationally certified in the interior decorating profession through Certified Interior Decorators International (CIDI).  Amy can be reached at 480-683-0200, or amywolff@rnsmte.com.