Things to Check Before Buying an Apartment in India: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning to buy an apartment in India? Congratulations on taking this significant step!

However, before making a decision, it's essential to ensure that you've covered all the necessary checks to avoid any surprises or regrets later on. In this post, we'll provide you with a detailed checklist of things to verify before buying an apartment in India.

Essential Items:

Interior:

1. Apartment cleanliness and safety

2. Ventilation and sunlight

3. Inspect walls of the unit closely for cracks and water leaks

4. Check plumbing

5. Number of elevators in the building

6. Check noise level (day and night)

7. Bug check (Bedbug, mosquitoes, lizards, Roaches, etc.)

8. Monthly maintenance fee (amount and what it covers)

9. Cellar/Ground Floor (presence and condition)

Exterior:

1. Decent road access

2. Car and Bike Parking (secure)

3. Electricity (stable)

4. Internet and cable access

5. Post office nearby

6. Banks nearby

7. Vegetable Market nearby

8. Clinic and Pharmacies nearby

9. Railway station, bus stand, and airport access

10. Online deliveries available

11. Borewell and metro water

12. Proximity to schools (if relevant)

13. Public transportation options

14. Nearby grocery stores or supermarkets

Nice to Have Items:

1. Trees and parks nearby

2. Lakes nearby

3. Temples nearby

4. Other amusement/entertainment options nearby

5. Recreational facilities (gym, pool, etc.)

6. Pet-friendliness (if applicable)

Here are some factors that affect the value of an apartment :

- Location: The neighborhood, proximity to amenities and local market conditions

- Age: The property's age compared to other properties in the area

- Size: The square footage and number of rooms

- Amenities: Features like a pool, garage or recent renovations

- Condition: The overall state of the property, including needed repairs

- Recent sales: The prices of comparable properties that have recently sold

- Current market trends: The balance between supply and demand in the local market

- Economy: The broader economy's impact on a person's ability to buy or sell a home.

- Interest rates: The impact of interest rates on affordability.

A house that has been on the market for a long time may not meet certain qualities that affect its value.

Remember, buying an apartment is a significant investment, and it's crucial to be thorough in your evaluation. By following this comprehensive checklist, you'll be well-prepared to make an informed decision and find your dream home in India!

Complete List of Qualified HSA Expenses

When it comes to qualified expenses that can be paid for using a Health Savings Account (HSA), there is a wide range of eligible medical, dental, and vision expenses. It's important to note that the list of qualified expenses may vary depending on the specific regulations and guidelines set by the IRS and your employer's plan. Here is a comprehensive list of qualified HSA expenses:

1. Medical Expenses:

   - Doctor's visits and consultations

   - Prescription medications

   - Hospital services and treatments

   - Laboratory fees and tests

   - X-rays and imaging services

   - Physical therapy

   - Mental health services

   - Substance abuse treatment

   - Chiropractic care

   - Acupuncture

   - Smoking cessation programs

   - Weight loss programs for specific medical conditions

   - Medical equipment and supplies (e.g., crutches, wheelchairs, blood pressure monitors)

2. Dental Expenses:

   - Routine dental exams and cleanings

   - Fillings, crowns, and bridges

   - Orthodontic treatment

   - Dentures and dental implants

   - Oral surgery

   - Teeth whitening (if prescribed by a dentist for a medical reason)

3. Vision Expenses:

   - Eye exams

   - Prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses

   - Prescription sunglasses

   - Corrective eye surgery (e.g., LASIK)

   - Vision therapy

4. Family Planning Expenses:

   - Birth control pills and devices

   - Fertility treatments

   - Pregnancy tests and prenatal care

   - Breast pumps and lactation supplies

5. Preventive Care Expenses:

   - Vaccinations and immunizations

   - Annual physical exams

   - Well-child visits

   - Mammograms and Pap smears

   - Colonoscopies and other cancer screenings

   - HIV testing

6. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications and Supplies:

   - As per the CARES Act, certain OTC medications and supplies are now eligible for reimbursement using HSA funds. This includes items such as allergy, cough, and cold medicines.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there may be other qualified expenses that are specific to your situation. It's always a good idea to consult IRS Publications 502 and 969 for the complete list of eligible and ineligible expenses. Additionally, your employer's plan document may provide further guidance on reimbursable expenses under your specific plan.

Remember to keep all receipts and documentation for your qualified medical expenses, as they may be required for tax purposes and to substantiate your HSA withdrawals

The 2024 Oscar Nominations: The Race for Awards Season Gold Begins

Introduction:

As the film industry gears up for the highly anticipated 96th Academy Awards, film enthusiasts and industry insiders are buzzing with excitement over the potential nominees and winners. In this blog post, we will explore some intriguing ideas for discussion and make a few bold predictions about the 2024 Oscar nominations.

1. Unconventional Nominees: Breaking the Mold

- Discuss the possibility of unconventional films or genres receiving nominations, challenging the traditional boundaries of Oscar recognition.

- Highlight potential contenders that push the envelope in terms of storytelling, cinematography, or cultural significance.

2. Diversity and Representation: A New Era

- Explore how the push for diversity and inclusion in recent years might impact the 2024 Oscar nominations.

- Analyze the potential for a more inclusive range of films, actors, and directors being recognized, and the positive impact it could have on the industry.

3. Emerging Talents: Rising Stars of the Silver Screen

- Shine a spotlight on up-and-coming actors, directors, and writers who have made a significant impact in the past year and have a chance of receiving their first Oscar nominations.

- Discuss their unique contributions to the industry and explore the potential for breakthrough nominations.

4. Surprising Snubs: Oscar Controversies

- Delve into past Oscar controversies and predict potential snubs that might cause a stir among film fans.

- Discuss the various factors that can lead to surprising omissions, such as critical reception, marketing campaigns, or the Academy's voting patterns.

5. Best Picture: The Ultimate Showdown

- Analyze the potential frontrunners for the coveted Best Picture category, considering critical acclaim, box office success, and audience reception.

- Make bold predictions about which films will make the final cut and explore the narratives and themes that make them stand out.

Conclusion:

The anticipation surrounding the 2024 Oscar nominations is palpable, as film enthusiasts eagerly await the announcement of this year's contenders. With a focus on unconventional nominees, diversity and representation, emerging talents, surprising snubs, and the Best Picture race, this blog post has provided a glimpse into the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. As the awards season unfolds, let's brace ourselves for surprises, celebrate the achievements of diverse voices in the industry, and embrace the magic of cinema. The 96th Academy Awards promise to be a memorable celebration of the best that the silver screen has to offer.

Does ghost exist? Are they real?

Scientifically speaking, there is no conclusive evidence for the existence of ghosts. Many studies and investigations have been conducted, but none have provided solid proof of their existence Ghost stories and personal experiences may be intriguing, but they do not meet the criteria for scientific evidence. It's important to note that some ghost-hunting TV shows and photos/videos claiming to capture ghostly activity are often either hoaxes or can be explained by natural phenomena or equipment malfunctions.

While some people believe in ghosts, the scientific community generally does not consider them to be a valid subject of study due to the lack of empirical evidence. It's worth mentioning that beliefs in the paranormal can vary among individuals and cultures, and personal experiences can strongly influence one's beliefs.

If you're interested in exploring the topic further, you may find it helpful to consider alternative explanations for ghostly experiences, such as psychological and environmental factors, the power of suggestion, low-frequency sound, drafts, and the enjoyment of being afraid. However, it's important to approach these explanations with a critical mindset and understand that they are not definitive proof of the existence or non-existence of ghosts.

Remember, the concept of ghosts falls into the realm of belief and personal interpretation, rather than scientific fact.

What is the significance in India of hanging lemon and chili tied to a thread outside of one's house?

Hanging 'lemon chili' outside the house and shop may seem like a strange practice, but there is actually a scientific explanation for it. Lemon chilies are a type of fruit that are often used in recipes, and they are known to attract pests. By hanging lemon chilies outside the house, you are likely to reduce the number of pests that come into contact with your food. In addition, the lemony aroma of the chilies may also deter pests from coming near your food.

Both lemon and chillies are rich in Vitamin C. So when a cotton thread is pierced through these substances, the cotton absorbs their nutrients and gradually vaporize them in air. Inhaling this air has health benefits.

In ancient times, when there were no proper roads and people traversed through jungles on foot to reach their destinations, they would carry a lemon and few chillies with them besides water. If they grew thirsty and dehydrated, they would squeeze juice from the lemon, which contains Vitamin C, into the water and drink it to refresh themselves.

As for the chillies, they played a big part in determining poisonous snake bites! While walking through jungles infested by snakes, people often got bitten. To determine whether the bite was poisonous or not, the victim would eat a chilli.

If the bite was poisonous, the victim's tongue would have no sensation as his nerves would be numbed and he wouldn't find the chilli bitterly pungent. But, if the bite was non-poisonous, he would immediately feel his mouth 'burn' due to the hot taste of the chilli.

Thus, the lemon and chillies served as a mobile first aid kit during those days.

Over time, it somehow led to the misconception that the lemon and chillies ward off evil while travelling.

For instance, folks in India throw it on the road in the hope that someone crushes it and all the bad omen / curses / evil that the lemon chilli absorbed / warded off would pass on to the person who crushed it.

SPEECH THERAPY FOR KIDS

KIDS WITH SPEECH DELAY

Food for health: Vallarai, Holy Basil, Neem, Papaya Leaf, Spinach, Cilantro, Mint, Ajwain Leaf, Guava Leaf, Ginger Powder, Honey Natural digestive enzymes include pineapples, papayas, mangoes, bananas, avocados, kefir, yogurt, kimchi, miso, kiwifruit and ginger. Diagnosis : - Have you noticed your kid responds to sounds/music? - In general, Male babies gain language skills at a slower rate than female babies. - Does your kid have a tongue-tie? - Do you live in foreign country, you don't have people or your family around? - Is your kid sensitive to sounds and noise? (ex: blender or vacuum sound) - Is your kid growing in an isolated environment without being exposed to other kids? - Your kid had breastfeeding problems? - Picky eater / difficult bowel movement? - Originated from tropical country and migrated to a cold climate?

- Speech therapy?

Ten Ways Project Managers to Improve Performance Reviews

1.  Create the System

The first step is to have clearly defined job descriptions that specify the tasks, functions, and responsibilities of each job.  What does it take to do this job right?  What are the success indicators?  What are the derailers? Answers to these questions form the foundation for deciding behavior-based competencies for the particular job, the area of the organization, or the company as a whole. 

2. Clearly define competencies

Usually competencies relate to one of four areas: ability to get results, capacity to form relationships, decision making, and leadership. Specifically defined competencies might also include business acumen, customer focus, coaching, integrity, vision, communication, teamwork, flexibility, technical skills, and innovation.  Once the company decides on 8-10 competencies, the next step is to establish the rating scale.

3.  Decide on the scale you will use

The most basic scale is three points:  exceeds expectations, meets expectations, or fails to meet expectations.  However, a four-point scale gives more options for evaluation and forces the evaluator to avoid a middle of the road review.

4.  Set the timeline for reviews

In short, the year begins with goal setting, continues with ongoing feedback, and concludes with the end of the year evaluation that is often tied to raises and bonuses.  This sort of schedule avoids surprises and the “once a year” mentality that dooms most performance appraisal systems.  Also, the periodic reviews give the employee a chance to take corrective action when there are still opportunities to make a difference. 

In general, four meetings per year work well.  The first is a goal setting meeting; the second addressees progress on the goals; the third surfaces any problems that might interfere with the end of the year appraisal; and the final one is a formality that ties the progress to rewards. 

5.  Clarify Expectations

The purpose of goal setting is to tie individual performance to the organization’s  mission, vision, and values and to link short-term objectives to long-term targets.  People most often commit to goals they’ve helped construct. 

6.  Define areas of accountability

Often direct reports don’t understand their parameters for accountability and decision  making.  They either overstep when boundaries are not clear, or they err on the side of caution and risk-avoidance.  Working together, the project manager and direct report need to clarify which decisions the employee will make alone, which ones will require notification of the PM, and which ones need to be cleared with the project manager. 

7.  Support the efforts of direct reports

Project Managers frequently do no support the efforts of their direct reports.  The research suggests, and multi-rater feedback reports confirm, that mentoring, giving feedback, and developing others are usually the PM’s lowest ratings, primarily because “getting the job done” seems more important.  Support from the PM is an inexpensive but effective way to improve performance and show a commitment to excellence.

8.  Review performance regularly

Scheduled conversations offer another way to build trust and reduce anxiety. Obviously, feedback about performance should occur when it can do the most good—when it is immediate and focused.  When a direct report makes a mistake, addressing the problem right away is the surest way to take corrective action.  Similarly, when a person excels at a task, complimenting and praising the efforts immediately will show appreciation and encourage more of the same.

9. Make performance appraisals a two-way conversation

The performance appraisal should be an opportunity for both the PM and the employee to learn. Listening to the other person first shows a willingness to consider new information, and if necessary, to change the nature of the review.  Similarly, hearing the other person sets the tone for the give-and-take that will be necessary to create understanding and commitment between the two.

10.  Develop the Action Plan

The action plan is a fluid document that should change with new information, accomplishments, unexpected events, and learning.  Therefore, at the beginning of the year and at each subsequent meeting, the PM and direct report need to prioritize goals and objectives to identify the current most important two.  This does not imply that writing the action plan is optional.  A written action plan is the tangible agreement among the stakeholders.  It serves as a kind of report card for tracking results and re-directing efforts.  Therefore, both the PM and the direct report should keep a copy of the original agreement and the subsequent notes and changes.  When this happens, the end of the year evaluation brings no surprises

HR Round Interview Question & Answers

1. So, tell me a little about yourself.
I’d be very surprised if you haven’t been asked this one at every interview. It’s probably the most asked question because it sets the stage for the interview and it gets you talking. Be careful not to give the interviewer your life story here. You don’t need to explain everything from birth to present day. Relevant facts about education, your career and your current life situation are fine.

2. Why are you looking (or why did you leave you last job)?
This should be a straightforward question to answer, but it can trip you up. Presumably you are looking for a new job (or any job) because you want to advance your career and get a position that allows you to grow as a person and an employee. It’s not a good idea to mention money here, it can make you sound mercenary. And if you are in the unfortunate situation of having been downsized, stay positive and be as brief as possible about it. If you were fired, you’ll need a good explanation. But once again, stay positive.

3. Tell me what you know about this company.
Do your homework before you go to any interview. Whether it’s being the VP of marketing or the mailroom clerk, you should know about the company or business you’re going to work for. Has this company been in the news lately? Who are the people in the company you should know about? Do the background work, it will make you stand out as someone who comes prepared, and is genuinely interested in the company and the job.

4. Why do you want to work at X Company?
This should be directly related to the last question. Any research you’ve done on the company should have led you to the conclusion that you’d want to work there. After all, you’re at the interview, right? Put some thought into this answer before you have your interview, mention your career goals and highlight forward-thinking goals and career plans.

5. What relevant experience do you have?
Hopefully if you’re applying for this position you have bags of related experience, and if that’s the case you should mention it all. But if you’re switching careers or trying something a little different, your experience may initially not look like it’s matching up. That’s when you need a little honest creativity to match the experiences required with the ones you have. People skills are people skills after all, you just need to show how customer service skills can apply to internal management positions, and so on.

6. If your previous co-workers were here, what would they say about you?
Ok, this is not the time for full disclosure. If some people from your past are going to say you’re a boring A-hole, you don’t need to bring that up. Stay positive, always, and maybe have a few specific quotes in mind. “They’d say I was a hard worker” or even better “John Doe has always said I was the most reliable, creative problem-solver he’d ever met.”

7. Have you done anything to further your experience?
This could include anything from night classes to hobbies and sports. If it’s related, it’s worth mentioning. Obviously anything to do with further education is great, but maybe you’re spending time on a home improvement project to work on skills such as self-sufficiency, time management and motivation.

8. Where else have you applied?
This is a good way to hint that you’re in demand, without sounding like you’re whoring yourself all over town. So, be honest and mention a few other companies but don’t go into detail. The fact that you’re seriously looking and keeping your options open is what the interviewer is driving at.

9. How are you when you’re working under pressure?
Once again, there are a few ways to answer this but they should all be positive. You may work well under pressure, you may thrive under pressure, and you may actually PREFER working under pressure. If you say you crumble like aged blue cheese, this is not going to help you get your foot in the door.

10. What motivates you to do a good job?
The answer to this one is not money, even if it is. You should be motivated by life’s noble pursuits. You want recognition for a job well done. You want to become better at your job. You want to help others or be a leader in your field.

11. What’s your greatest strength?
This is your chance to shine. You’re being asked to explain why you are a great employee, so don’t hold back and stay do stay positive. You could be someone who thrives under pressure, a great motivator, an amazing problem solver or someone with extraordinary attention to detail. If your greatest strength, however, is to drink anyone under the table or get a top score on Mario Kart, keep it to yourself. The interviewer is looking for work-related strengths.

12. What’s your biggest weakness?
If you’re completely honest, you may be kicking yourself in the butt. If you say you don’t have one, you’re obviously lying. This is a horrible question and one that politicians have become masters at answering. They say things like “I’m perhaps too committed to my work and don’t spend enough time with my family.” Oh, there’s a fireable offense. I’ve even heard “I think I’m too good at my job, it can often make people jealous.” Please, let’s keep our feet on the ground. If you’re asked this question, give a small, work-related flaw that you’re working hard to improve. Example: “I’ve been told I occasionally focus on details and miss the bigger picture, so I’ve been spending time laying out the complete project every day to see my overall progress.”

13. Let’s talk about salary. What are you looking for?
Run for cover! This is one tricky game to play in an interview. Even if you know the salary range for the job, if you answer first you’re already showing all your cards. You want as much as possible, the employer wants you for as little as you’re willing to take. Before you apply, take a look at salary.com for a good idea of what someone with your specific experience should be paid. You may want to say, “well, that’s something I’ve thought long and hard about and I think someone with my experience should get between X & Y.” Or, you could be sly and say, “right now, I’m more interested in talking more about what the position can offer my career.” That could at least buy you a little time to scope out the situation. But if you do have a specific figure in mind and you are confident that you can get it, I’d say go for it. I have on many occasions, and every time I got very close to that figure (both below and sometimes above).

14. Are you good at working in a team?
Unless you have the I.Q. of a houseplant, you’ll always answer YES to this one. It’s the only answer. How can anyone function inside an organization if they are a loner? You may want to mention what part you like to play in a team though; it’s a great chance to explain that you’re a natural leader.

15. Tell me a suggestion you have made that was implemented.
It’s important here to focus on the word “implemented.” There’s nothing wrong with having a thousand great ideas, but if the only place they live is on your notepad what’s the point? Better still, you need a good ending. If your previous company took your advice and ended up going bankrupt, that’s not such a great example either. Be prepared with a story about an idea of yours that was taken from idea to implementation, and considered successful.

16. Has anything ever irritated you about people you've worked with?
Of course, you have a list as long as your arm. But you can’t say that, it shows you as being negative and difficult to work with. The best way to answer this one is to think for a while and then say something like “I’ve always got on just fine with my co-workers actually.”

17. Is there anyone you just could not work with?
No. Well, unless you’re talking about murderers, racists, rapists, thieves or other dastardly characters, you can work with anyone. Otherwise you could be flagged as someone who’s picky and difficult if you say, “I can’t work with anyone who’s a Bronco’s fan. Sorry.”

18. Tell me about any issues you’ve had with a previous boss.
Arrgh! If you fall for this one you shouldn’t be hired anyway. The interviewer is testing you to see if you’ll speak badly about your previous supervisor. Simply answer this question with exteme tact, diplomacy and if necessary, a big fat loss of memory. In short, you've never had any issues.

19. Would you rather work for money or job satisfaction?
It’s not a very fair question is it? We’d all love to get paid a Trump-like salary doing a job we love but that’s rare indeed. It’s fine to say money is important, but remember that NOTHING is more important to you than the job. Otherwise, you’re just someone looking for a bigger paycheck.

20. Would you rather be liked or feared?
I have been asked this a lot, in various incarnations. The first time I just drew a blank and said, “I don’t know.” That went over badly, but it was right at the start of my career when I had little to no experience. Since then I’ve realized that my genuine answer is “Neither, I’d rather be respected.” You don’t want to be feared because fear is no way to motivate a team. You may got the job done but at what cost? Similarly, if you’re everyone’s best friend you’ll find it difficult to make tough decisions or hit deadlines. But when you’re respected, you don’t have to be a complete bastard or a lame duck to get the job done.

21. Are you willing to put the interests of X Company ahead of your own?
Again, another nasty question. If you say yes, you’re a corporate whore who doesn’t care about family. If you say no, you’re disloyal to the company. I’m afraid that you’ll probably have to say yes to this one though, because you’re trying to be the perfect employee at this point, and perfect employees don’t cut out early for Jimmy’s baseball game.

22. So, explain why I should hire you.
As I’m sure you know, “because I’m great” or “I really need a job” are not good answers here. This is a time to give the employer a laundry list of your greatest talents that just so happen to match the job description. It’s also good to avoid taking potshots at other potential candidates here. Focus on yourself and your talents, not other people’s flaws.

23. Finally, do you have any questions to ask me?
I’ll finish the way I started, with one of the most common questions asked in interviews. This directly relates to the research you’ve done on the company and also gives you a chance to show how eager and prepared you are. You’ll probably want to ask about benefits if they haven’t been covered already. A good generic one is “how soon could I start, if I were offered the job of course.” You may also ask what you’d be working on. Specifically, in the role you’re applying for and how that affects the rest of the company. Always have questions ready, greeting this one with a blank stare is a rotten way to finish your interview. Good luck and happy job hunting.

How to Apply for EAD

An EAD, or Employment Authorization Document, issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is required by aliens who wish to work in the United States and who meet certain eligibility criteria (for example, those whose I-485--application for adjustment of status--is pending, or those who have been granted refugee status by the United States). Details of who is eligible for an EAD are listed on the form I-765, the Application for Employment Authorization. An EAD is issued by the USCIS to eligible aliens on filing form I-765. You can choose to paper-file or e-file EAD.

Click here for EAD E-File Login

Instructions

 Visit www.uscis.gov. This is the official website of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. Click on the "File Online" link from the menu. It takes you to the login page.

 Sign into your account or create an online account on the USCIS website with a username and password. You also need to provide your name, address, password reminder questions and supply a few other personal information details.

 Have your A# (Alien Registration Number issued by the USCIS during one of the stages of the Green Card application process), SSN and any records of previous filing handy. Start by selecting the form I 765 from the menu of applications. Specify whether you are filing for yourself or for someone else by selecting the appropriate answer.

 Click "Continue" at the bottom of each page when you have completed filling out the information on that page and verify it. Fill out your personal information on Screen 2 and click "Continue."

 On the third screen, you will need to provide most of the information related specifically to E-filing your EAD, such as your legal status in the United States (parolee, adjustment of status), dates of previous EAD filings, date, place and manner of last entry into the country and other details. Refer to the entry dates and other vital information as they appear on your passport or USCIS receipts and double-check to ensure the information you provide is accurate.

 Once you finish entering all the information, you will be prompted to pay the application fee and receive a confirmation receipt. Print it out. Make a note of the service center that will be processing your application, mentioned on the receipt.

 Prepare to send the supporting documentation by mail. The list of documents is mentioned on the I 765 form. Make a copy of your I 94, your current EAD, your EAD e-filing confirmation receipt and your I 485 receipt notice. Send these to the specified Service Center by US Mail.

 You will receive a receipt and finger printing notice by mail providing you the details of the center, date and time when you need to go in for finger printing. In some cases, such as if you are renewing your EAD, you may not be required to go in for finger printing and will receive your EAD card within the specified time.

Note:

Keep all relevant documentation and information handy before you start out--passport, USCIS receipt notices, A #, Social Security Number, previous filing dates and EAD card. Send the supporting documentation by mail as soon as you can after e-filing EAD, preferably within the next couple of days. Update your case status for each type of application, including EAD E-filing, in your USCIS account.