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Brandon Blog Post

OUR MOST READ BLOGS IN 2022: THE INTRIGUING LIST

our most read blogs in 2022
our most read blogs in 2022
our most read blogs in 2022
our most read blogs in 2022


Our most read blogs in 2022: Did people still consume blog content in 2022?

It is challenging to accurately ascertain the number of individuals who engaged in blog reading in 2022, as such information is not publicly accessible. However, if the performance of our blog, Brandon’s Blog, is any indication, blog reading should remain a widespread form of online content consumption in 2023 and beyond.

This is because blogs provide an easy way for individuals and businesses to share their opinions, stories, and advice with their audiences. Additionally, blogs can be customized to meet individual needs and preferences, making them accessible and enjoyable to a wide range of readers.

Furthermore, blogs are easy to share, allowing readers to share their favourite content with friends and family. As such, the prevalence of blog reading will likely continue for the foreseeable future. In this Brandon’s Blog, I explain what I think makes for an effective blog post and then discuss our most read blogs in 2022.

Our most read blogs in 2022: Which type of blog has the most readership?

The demand for personal blogs and business blogs can vary widely depending on the topic and audience. Some popular blog topics for personal blogs are the ones that impact people’s daily lives including personal finance, parenting, health and wellness, travel, food and cooking, technology, and fashion blogs. Some people may also be interested in specific hobbies or activities, such as gardening, crafting, sports, or fitness blogs.

In general, blogs that are well-written, informative, and engaging tend to be in demand, regardless of the topic. Blogs that can offer valuable insights, useful tips, or new perspectives on a subject can be particularly appealing to readers. Additionally, blogs that are updated regularly with fresh content following a specific content strategy, can be more attractive to readers, as they provide a reason to return to the site on a regular basis.

It is important to bear in mind that there can be fluctuating levels of demand for blogs due to the dynamic nature of individuals’ interests and priorities. A blog that covers a topical issue or a current event may experience a surge of readers, while a blog that looks at a less prominent topic may not be a popular blog.

Consequently, bloggers can benefit from being mindful of the int ests of their readership and having the capacity to adjust their blogging practices accordingly. That is what we try to do with Brandon’s Blog. I would love you to email me at info@irasmithinc.com to let me know how you think I am doing and if there are any topics, in particular, you wish me to cover.

our most read blogs in 2022
our most read blogs in 2022

Our most read blogs in 2022: What would be the most successful blogging strategy in 2023?

There are many strategies I believe that bloggers can use to make their blogs more effective in 2023 and beyond. What I try to do for making sure that this remains a successful blog is:

Create high-quality content with a specific content strategy:

One of the most important strategies for successful blogging is to create content that is informative, engaging, and well-written. This can help to attract and retain a loyal readership.

Use SEO techniques:

Search engine optimization (SEO) can help improve your blog’s visibility in search engine results pages. This can be achieved by using relevant keywords in your blog titles and content and creating meta descriptions and alt tags for images.

Promote the blog:

To ensure your blog reaches its intended audience, it is essential to use marketing tools to promote it through available channels such as social media and email.

Interact with your readers:

Developing a dedicated group of followers is a major part of blogging success. Connect with your audience and motivate them to spread the word about your content.

Frequency:

Keep your readers engaged and coming back for more by providing new content and getting the word out!

Don’t be afraid to mix things up in your blogs:

Trying out different formats and styles like video, audio, or interactive content can be a great way to keep your readers engaged.

To remain a leader in the industry, I’m constantly researching the newest trends, court decisions, and top strategies in the world of insolvency. This way I can ensure Brandon’s Blog topics are always up-to-date and appealing to new audiences. All this hard work gives me the confidence that my efforts won’t go to waste!

our most read blogs in 2022
our most read blogs in 2022

Our most read blogs in 2022: I’m excited to share with you our 10 most-loved blog posts from 2022!

From #10 to #1, here are our top 10 most read blogs in 2022:

10. CREDIT CARD DEBT AFTER DEATH IN CANADA: WHO IS RESPONSIBLE?

This August 2019 blog answers the 8 most asked questions about credit card debt after death in Canada.

9. CANADIAN DEBT RELIEF PROGRAM SCAM REVIEW: MASSIVE HARM CAUSED TO DEBTOR

In this January 2022 Brandon’s Blog, I wrote about the unfortunate privilege we had of consulting on a compelling case of a Toronto man who had opted to utilize a debt relief program offered by a Canadian debt relief firm to tackle his debt problems. Unfortunately, despite taking advantage of this program, the individual in question remains debt-ridden and lost his home, all a result of perfectly following the advice of the debt consultant.

8. 4 PILLARS CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT SETTLEMENT: OUR DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO THE PEARCE V 4 PILLARS LAWSUIT SETTLEMENT

On October 29, 2019, an agreement was reached in the Pearce v 4 Pillars Consulting Group Inc. class action lawsuit, certified by the court in British Columbia. This blog, published in March 2022, provided an overview of the settlement between the two parties. This debt consultant company in question obviously preferred this settlement to resolve the issue rather than going to trial. This is especially in light of the findings of the BC Court up to the point of the settlement as to the infractions by the debt consultant company.

7. HOW LONG DOES PROBATE TAKE IN ONTARIO? 7 QUESTIONS NEWBIE ONTARIO ESTATE TRUSTEES ARE EMBARRASSED TO ASK

In our role as Estate Trustees in our companion business, Smith Estate Trustee Ontario, our team of professionals often encounters queries regarding the duration of probate in Ontario, as well as 6 other commonly asked questions. This May 2021 Brandon’s Blog provides answers to these FAQs.

6. 4 PILLARS LAWSUIT GETS GIGANTIC APPROVAL TO PROCEED FROM COURT OF APPEAL FOR BRITISH COLUMBIA

In this May 2021 blog, I discuss the 4 Pillars lawsuit, explaining why the Court of Appeal for British Columbia has approved it as a class action proceeding, despite the objections of the debt consulting firm.

5. CEBA LOAN BUSINESS CLOSED: THE #1 DRASTIC ULTIMATE CEBA LOAN FORGIVENESS PLAN

Early this year, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business revealed that due to the indefinite prolongment of the pandemic, many Canadian businesses have become apprehensive about their financial stability. Even with emergency government assistance, the future of these businesses remained uncertain.

Despite the CEBA loan program for Canadian businesses in this April 2022 installment of Brandon’s Blog, I examined the implications for entrepreneurs who are unable to repay a CEBA loan and their business was forced to close.

4. CEBA LOAN UPDATE: 3 INTRIGUING CREATIVE WAYS FOR ENTREPRENEURS TO CONQUER CEBA LOAN DEFAULT

This October 2021, Brandon’s Blog provided a comprehensive update on the CEBA loan program and addressed the often-asked question of what constitutes a loan default. Additionally, the blog outlined three innovative strategies for entrepreneurs to deal with any potential loan default.

3. EXECUTOR DUTIES ONTARIO: OUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO MAKE A 1ST TIME EXECUTOR LOOK LIKE A PRO

My Firm through our other business, Smith Estate Trustee Ontario, frequently undertakes the role of Court-appointed Executor/Estate Trustee. Unfortunately, many individuals are inadequately equipped to handle the delicate process of settling the estate of a deceased family member or friend, leading to stress and distress.

This October 2021 Brandon’s Blog provides support to you in your duties as an Estate Trustee in Ontario through a helpful Ontario Executor duties checklist to help you navigate the estate settlement process with confidence and expertise.

2. HOW TO BEAT 407 PLATE DENIAL RULES EACH AND EVERY MONTH FOREVER

The 407 ETR reports that only a small proportion of toll evaders choose to pay up voluntarily. However, they have one surefire way to make sure they recoup what they’re owed; Ontario can deny license plates to those who don’t settle their 407 toll debt. People ought to be aware that this is a serious consequence and should be sure to pay their tolls.

If you’re having difficulty with a 407 plate denial, this March 2021 Brandon’s Blog provides a comprehensive overview of the Canadian insolvency process and how it can help you handle this issue if the 407 is one of your creditors.

1. WHAT HAPPENS TO MORTGAGE WHEN YOU DIE CANADA: AMAZING DEBT PHILOSOPHY EXPLAINED

This Brandon’s Blog published in October 2019 dives into the implications of what happens to a Canadian’s mortgage when they pass away.

our most read blogs in 2022
our most read blogs in 2022

Our most read blogs in 2022: Are there any indicators that my financial situation is in good shape?

Several signs may indicate financial health:

  1. You have a budget and stick to it: Having a budget can help you keep track of your income and expenses and make sure you are saving and spending wisely.
  2. Your emergency fund exists: It’s critical to maintain an emergency fund for any unanticipated costs or situations. A reliable guideline is to have enough cash stored away to cover your living expenses for at least three to six months.
  3. You have manageable debt: Having some debt is normal, but it’s important to make sure your debt is manageable and that you are making progress in paying it off.
  4. You save and invest: Building wealth involves saving and investing for the long term. If you can set aside money for the future and invest it wisely, it can be a sign of financial health.
  5. You can meet your financial obligations: Being able to pay your bills on time and meet your financial obligations, such as rent or mortgage payments, is a sign of financial stability.
  6. You have a financial plan: Having a plan for your financial future can help you achieve your financial goals and can be a sign of financial health. This might include setting savings goals, investing for retirement, or planning for a major purchase.

Our most read blogs in 2022: What will your 2023 finances look like?

I hope you enjoyed our most read blogs in 2022 Brandon’s Blog.

There are many financial blogs. Ours focuses mainly on issues of importance to those experiencing debt problems. Income and cash flow shortages are critical issues facing Canadians, be they employees, entrepreneurs or companies and businesses. Are you now worried about just how you or your business are going to survive? Those concerns are obviously on your mind. Coming out of the pandemic, we are now worried about its economic effects of inflation and a potential recession.

The Ira Smith Team understands these concerns. More significantly, we know the requirements of the business owner or the individual that has way too much financial debt. You are trying to manage these difficult financial problems and you are understandably anxious.

It is not your fault you can’t fix this problem on your own. The pandemic has thrown everyone a curveball. We have not been trained to deal with this. You have only been taught the old ways. The old ways do not work anymore. The Ira Smith Team makes use of new contemporary ways to get you out of your debt problems while avoiding bankruptcy. We can get you debt relief now.

We have helped many entrepreneurs and their insolvent companies who thought that consulting with a trustee and receiver meant their company would go bankrupt. On the contrary. We helped turn their companies around through financial restructuring.

We look at your whole circumstance and design a strategy that is as distinct as you are. We take the load off of your shoulders as part of the debt settlement strategy we will draft just for you.

We understand that people facing money problems require a lifeline. That is why we can establish a restructuring procedure for you and end the discomfort you feel.

Call us now for a no-cost consultation. We will listen to the unique issues facing you and provide you with practical and actionable ideas you can implement right away to end the pain points in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

our most read blogs in 2022
our most read blogs in 2022

 

Categories
Brandon Blog Post

THE RISING COST OF LIVING IN TORONTO AND ELSEWHERE: WILL YOU BE PUSHED INTO HUGE DEBT?

We hope that you and your family are safe, healthy and secure during this COVID-19 pandemic. Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

Cost of living in Toronto and elsewhere: Canada’s rising annual inflation rate is a cost-of-living crisis

Two articles about living costs for Canadians were published this week. According to a recent Angus Reid poll, many Canadians’ quality of life is further diminishing as more debt is accumulated and the pandemic continues. Then Statistics Canada announced that the annual inflation rate reached its highest level since February 2003 in September.

When you hear the term “cost of living“, it’s often accompanied by the phrase “rise” or “have risen”. Recent data shows that Canada as a whole has experienced an increase in the cost of living. In this Brandon Blog, I describe how the rising cost of living in Toronto and elsewhere has the potential to create more debt and therefore more stress on Canadians.

cost of living in toronto
cost of living in toronto

Cost of living in Toronto and elsewhere: What is the Consumer Price Index?

Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a national measure of prices based on living costs across major cities in Canada. As the most quoted measure of living costs today, the CPI shows how costs have changed from year to year and illustrate that not everything is as cheap as it once was.

It is inflation that tells the whole story. A rising cost of goods and services reduces the purchasing power of the dollar. Cost increases are measured by this indicator. A CPI calculation represents the average cost of an accepted basket of the standard of living items, such as:

  • food prices;
  • cost of housing;
  • transportation costs; and
  • medical costs

How does inflation affect our daily lives? Inflation increases food, gasoline, and utility costs, reducing savings and discretionary spending. Price increases create economic inequity. They are tough on the middle class, and even harder on the lower class.

What is behind the rise in prices? The federal government, via Statistics Canada, reports that the consumer price index in September was up 4.4 percent compared to last year. In August, the reading grew by 4.1% year-over-year. Last month, consumers paid 32.8 percent more for gasoline than in September 2020. This increase in gas prices is what drove most of the increase.

cost of living in toronto
cost of living in toronto

Cost of living in Toronto and elsewhere: The negative side of the cost of living increases

As the cost of living and the inflation rate rises, Canadians are often caught short by unexpected financial burdens that can quickly devour their earnings. At the same time, the cost of day-to-day living, like food and housing, is increasing, which makes it hard for Canadians to save money for the future. Research shows that for low-income families, housing, food, transit and child-care costs generally are all increasing at a faster rate than incomes. This can easily push poorer households below the poverty line.

All of us have heard about the cost of living increases, and so far it has been a controversial topic. We haven’t reached a consensus regarding this issue. Some say we shouldn’t worry about it, while others say we need to act.

The surge in inflation highlighted the failure of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s economic policies, said Erin O’Toole during the recent federal election. How did PM Trudeau respond? In his view, monetary policy is not one of the top priorities for his government after the election. He continued:

“When I think about the biggest, most important economic policy this government if re-elected, would move forward, you’ll forgive me if I don’t think about monetary policy. You’ll understand that I think about families.”

Canadians were encouraged by Erin O’Toole to vote out the government. Well, that did not happen!

cost of living in toronto
cost of living in toronto

Cost of living in Toronto and elsewhere: How the rising Consumer Price Index affects you

Researchers at Angus Reid Group conducted an online poll of 2,015 Canadians in September to determine the affordability of living in Canada. The survey found 26% of respondents had incurred at least one new debt, with 72% reporting that this debt has negatively affected their lives. The most common type of new debt was credit card debt.

In a previous Brandon Blog, I reported that many households were able to pay off higher-rate credit card debt during the lockdown while receiving payments from federal government COVID-19 pandemic support programs. After a return to normal, however, that will look, those same households run the risk of increasing their credit card balances again. The reality is that most people used their credit cards as a supplement to their income to pay for living expenses and/or lifestyles due to insufficient income.

According to the new survey, Canadians have now started taking on new credit card debt. As a result, their quality of life is further diminished as more debt accumulates and the pandemic continues. Canadians’ savings have also been impacted by increased spending on essentials, job loss and lower-income, according to the survey.

High real estate prices are forcing many Canadians to delay home ownership, according to the survey. Meanwhile, we have seen that the one thing the pandemic couldn’t stop was the booming real estate market in large Canadian cities. Even areas not typically associated with significant price increases are showing growth in real estate prices now that more big city dwellers are opting for a more flexible lifestyle by working remotely. Based on these results, it is clear that there is a larger gap between those who can afford to buy a home and those who cannot.

60 percent of Canadians said they would prioritize saving for an emergency fund or nest egg. In other words, Canadians’ priorities have shifted in 2022, with most thinking about saving for emergencies, retirement, and a major purchase like a house, car, or cottage.

cost of living in toronto
cost of living in toronto

Cost of living in Toronto and elsewhere: Tips to combat the financial hit of rising living costs

If we spend $10 at a coffee shop every day, what should we do differently ahead of time so that we’re not tempted to spend that $10? All of these things become habits, and habits are hard to break.

Regular readers know that in prior blogs about household debt and spending, I have stressed the importance of household budgets. Every source of family income and every expense must be considered. You need to look critically at all family expenses and separate the wants from the needs. Attempt to cut every expense you have (yes, every single one!) with the aim of saving 10% – 50% right now. Also, consider creatively if you can earn extra income in any other way.

There is no doubt that rising inflation, ongoing economic challenges worldwide, and the risk of interest rates going up are causing many Canadians to feel stressed and stretched to the limit. But it is still possible to spend less and build savings, even as your living costs rise.

As you do so, here are a few tips to help you stay on top of your finances and avoid debt in spite of rising costs:

  • Even though restaurants reopen, that doesn’t mean you have to buy most of your meals there. You can buy food at grocery stores instead.
  • Take advantage of what’s on sale or can be purchased at a discount when planning your meals.
  • If you can, buy bigger packages when they’re on sale for a lower price than smaller packages.
  • Analyze all your household and utility bills to find savings.
  • Savings are possible in many areas, including the bank account, cell phone, and internet plans.
  • Those $10 a day you spend at coffee shops add up to $170 a month if you do it 4 days a week.

When you’re looking forward to preserving your overall well-being through a sound money management plan, it’s easy to remember why you’re making frugal choices.

cost of living in toronto
cost of living in toronto

Cost of living in Toronto and elsewhere summary

I hope you found this cost of living in Toronto and elsewhere Brandon Blog post informative. Are you worried because you or your business are dealing with substantial debt challenges and you assume bankruptcy is your only option? Call me. It is not your fault that you remain in this way. You have actually been only shown the old ways to try to deal with financial issues. These old ways do not work anymore.

The Ira Smith Team utilizes new modern-day ways to get you out of your debt difficulties while avoiding bankruptcy. We can get you the relief you need and so deserve.

The tension put upon you is big. We know your discomfort factors. We will check out your entire situation and design a new approach that is as unique as you and your problems; financial and emotional. We will take the weight off of your shoulders and blow away the dark cloud hanging over you. We will design a debt settlement strategy for you. We know that we can help you now.

We understand that people and businesses facing financial issues need a realistic lifeline. There is no “one solution fits all” method with the Ira Smith Team. Not everyone has to file bankruptcy in Canada. The majority of our clients never do. We help many people and companies stay clear of bankruptcy.

That is why we can establish a new restructuring procedure for paying down debt that will be built just for you. It will be as one-of-a-kind as the economic issues and discomfort you are encountering. If any one of these seems familiar to you and you are serious about getting the solution you need, contact the Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. group today.

Call us now for a no-cost consultation.

We will get you or your business back up driving to healthy and balanced trouble-free operations and get rid of the discomfort factors in your life, Starting Over, Starting Now.

We hope that you and your family are safe, healthy and secure during this COVID-19 pandemic. Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. is absolutely operational and Ira, in addition to Brandon Smith, is readily available for a telephone consultation or video meeting.

cost of living in toronto
cost of living in toronto

 

Call a Trustee Now!