You might think that this phrase originated in a society where people traded cows as currency. Actually the term “cash cow” dates back to the 1960s and is attributed to the late management guru, Peter Drucker. He used it to describe a product that could keep earning money without additional investments—much the way a cow produces milk without needing more from the farmer than a few tugs of an udder. To me, as a real estate investor, I think of mobile homes as “cash cows” because they keep on giving.

Being summer time, we all want to shine. Real Simple magazine has an article on six creative uses for toothpaste (July 2010), and I thought I would share three of them to help make us all pretty. Happy summer!

1. Jewelry polish. Brighten tarnished baubles and precious metals by smearing them with a glob of nongel toothpaste, then gently buff with a soft cloth until they shine.
2. Hand Deodorizer. After handling garlic or onions, apply a half-dollar–size amount to wet palms, rub together, and rinse.
3. Nail Brightener. Gently massage a little whitening toothpaste into nail beds to remove any yellowing.

Toothpaste! Who would have thought?!

Small business who are willing to join forces with other like-minded companies are likely to spend less marketing dollars and improve both profits and develop complementary ventures, who in the end may refer more business.

A must-do before you decide to share strategy and look at a cooperative venture is:

• Prequalify Associates. The best alliances are ones that are related to your business, share a like-minded approach to business development, and are open to cooperative marketing. Meet face-to-face to discuss your goals and objectives for a venture, to see if you both fit. When you do this, you share the costs and benefits of your marketing effort and are likely to be successful in a co-op type of relationship. The effort can increase your business without as much expense as doing it yourself. If you are open to this approach, it could save you money, expand your referral sources, and increase your exposure. Happy marketing!

From getting a mortgage to your credit score, to credit and debit cards, loans, and more; you owe it to yourself to find out how this news will impact your financial future. With tighter regulations coming, now is the time to be aware and to improve your financial situation. Don’t wait. Get online to find out how the different financial areas of your life could be affected.

What is this? A new book out by Gregory Salsbury on rethinking retirement in the new economy looks interesting. He discusses both the psychological and financial decisions based on focus group interviews he conducted with pre-retirees. He shares some scary statistics, which once again, reinforces (in my opinion) the need to take control of our IRAs. Pick up this book then call Entrust or visit at www.theentrustgroup.com.

It’s easy to sign for a loan when we want something. With today’s rise in foreclosures, we need to be prudent. Think through what you can really afford to pay for a mortgage before you sign. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Add up all the costs. The total amount of all of your debt payments including the mortgage, other loans, credits etc., should not exceed more then 36% of your income. Some lenders will go up to 40%. I prefer the more conservative number.

2. Understand what it is you’re signing. Is this a fixed rate loan or adjustable? What are the terms? If it is an adjustable rate loan, what is the cap (sealing) on the loan? In other words, how much could your monthly payments rise over time?

3. Always have a reserve. Create a financial cushion to protect yourself on a rainy day. Have at least six months of living expenses in a money market or savings account. You just never know…

School is out for another month. Are your kids sitting by the TV zoned-out? Here are a few fun and different activities you can do with the kids.

1. If you live near a farm, see if they have fruit picking. Kids can get involved in the picking. They may get fruit stains, but it’s fun.

2. Go on a picnic at your local park. Let them run wild! Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy some family time too.

3. If you live in a city, take them on a city tour. Hop on one of those duck buses or trolleys that go through the city and point out historic events and places. Jump off at places they pick to learn more about. They will gain perspective and appreciate where they live too.

4. Camp out…in your backyard! Roast marshmallows, have a tent, sing songs, and watch the stars.

If all else fails, join the local YMCA or a local community center and enroll them in swimming, karate, dance, or gymnastics. There is no reason for kids to be bored, and you shouldn’t be either! Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Recently, my daughter and her family moved from New Jersey to South Carolina, due to job relocation. These tools helped her and her husband assess the area before they got settled:

www.cnnmoney.com/tools/costofliving – Cost of living in their new city
www.homefair.com — Neighborhoods for them to investigate
www.schooldatadirect.org — Picking the right school district
www.zillow.com — Home prices

If you are in the same boat, these sites may be valuable resources, as they proved to be for my daughter and her family. I hope they will be helpful to you too. Happy Hunting!

1. Turn the lights off if you are leaving a room for more than 10 minutes.
2. Turn off your computer and monitor when leaving for the day.
3. Use recycled paper.
4. If possible, car-pool or take public transportation to and from work.
5. Stay away from plastic. Use reusable cups instead of buying bottled water.

Join Entrust California on September 10, 2010 at a special presentation titled “Intelligent IRA Investing.” Seek answers from IRA experts, an attorney, and experienced investors who have used their IRA to invest in the cash flow of their choice. Interested in learning more? Visit the website, www.entrustcalifornia.com/investor-workshop, and get more information today!