Source: Informa Research Services

After weeks of floating closer and closer to 5 percent, the national average rate on a 30-year fixed conforming mortgage increased slightly this week from 5.06% last week to 5.14%, according to Informa Research Services’ weekly survey of interest rates.  While the average remains low, there are far lower rates available to qualified borrowers.  Informa Research Services, a subsidiary of Informa plc (LSE: INF) suggests looking to online tables to find the best deals.

Checking online rates tables, like those found on RealEstate.com, can help consumers discover lenders with rates below the national average.  For instance, all of the 30-year fixed rates currently posted by AimLoan are well below the national average.

Furthermore, unlike some sites, these online resources require only minimal information to retrieve mortgage rates to fit your unique situation.  Usually, the only information needed to see what low rates you may qualify for is loan amount, property value, and location of the property.

By Gina Cappiello www.123Movers.com

Shipping an automobile is similar, but very different from moving your belongings. If you feel clueless about the whole auto transport process, read on for helpful tips on what to do before, during, and after the shipment of your auto:

Are you already covered?
Some auto insurance companies will cover your automobile transport fees, so be sure to discuss your upcoming move with them first and foremost. You may be able to get a fantastic deal from them or find out your auto transport is 100% covered by your existing policy.

Are they covered?
Ask every moving company you want to work with for their insurance certification. Every auto transport company is required to have one by law, so don’t be afraid to ask. Also, ask about their policies especially if they seem vague in the contract.

Get it all recorded!
Get everything in writing from the auto transporter! Even if it seems like common knowledge or a small detail, ask for it to be written down before signing off. If the movers refuse to write the details you request down, move on and find a better auto transporter to work with.

Clean out your vehicle
Remove all of your personal items (GPS, CD player, jewelry, money, etc) from your car before you hand it over to the auto transporters. Not only could these small items add weight to your shipment and damage your car if shifted during transport, but these items are usually not covered if damaged or stolen during transport.

Inspect your car before and after shipment
When you drop your vehicle off, the transporter will perform an examination of your car and write down any/all damages on your car. While the transporter is reviewing his/her list, create your own and compare with the transporter to make sure you both are on the same page. It is also a good idea to take some photos of your vehicle for a visual record just in case. The same inspection happens at the destination to see if damages occurred during transport. This time, check your automobile’s undercarriage and make sure your car starts properly before you accept the vehicle to ensure no mechanical damage occurred while in transport.

Record damages and make a claim
Write down all discrepancies on the bill of lading before you accept the car. If any damage has been done to your vehicle during shipping, write it down on the bill of lading, have the transporter sign it and then contact the auto shipping company for a proper reimbursement. If you are not satisfied with the auto transporter during the claims process, file a complaint with your local Better Business Bureau. You can also contact the U.S. Department of Transportation, but only if your vehicle was transported over state lines. If nothing is resolved from there, take your case to a small claims court to receive the refund you deserve.