What is the return policy?

Most unopened items in new condition and returned within 90 days will receive a refund or exchange. Some items have a modified return policy noted on the receipt or packing slip. Items that are opened or damaged or do not have a receipt may be denied a refund or exchange. Items purchased online or in-store may be returned to any store. Online purchases may be returned via a major parcel carrier. Click here to initiate a return.

How long does it take to process a refund?

We will reimburse you for returned items in the same way you paid for them. For example, any amounts deducted from a gift card will be credited back to a gift card. For returns by mail, once we receive your return, we will process it within 4–5 business days. It may take up to 7 days after we process the return to reflect in your account, depending on your financial institution's processing time.

What is the policy for late/non-delivery of items ordered online?

Our local teams work diligently to make sure that your order arrives on time, within our normaldelivery hours of 9AM to 8PM in the recipient's time zone. During busy holiday periods like Christmas, Valentine's and Mother's Day, we may extend our delivery hours before 9AM and after 8PM to ensure that all gifts are delivered on time. If for any reason your gift does not arrive on time, our dedicated Customer Service agents will do everything they can to help successfully resolve your issue. Click here to complete the form with your order-related question(s).

When will my credit card be charged?

We'll attempt to securely charge your credit card at the point of purchase online. If there's a problem, you'll be notified on the spot and prompted to use another card. Once we receive verification of sufficient funds, your payment will be completed and transferred securely to us. Your account will be charged in 24 to 48 hours.

Will I be charged sales tax for online orders?

Local and State sales tax will be collected if your recipient's mailing address is in: Arizona California Colorado

Mortgage

February 07, 2024

Mystery of Variable Rate Mortgages

Unraveling the Mystery of Variable Rate Mortgages

Ah, mortgages! Those complex financial products that can unlock the door to homeownership but also leave you feeling like you need a degree in finance to understand them. Fear not, intrepid homebuyer! Today, we're tackling a key term: the Standard Variable Rate (SVR).

What is the SVR?

Think of the SVR as the baseline interest rate you'd pay on your mortgage with a particular lender. It's usually expressed as a percentage and differs from the Annual Percentage Rate (APR), which includes all loan costs like fees and insurance.

Why is the SVR important?

While interest rates fluctuate, every lender has an SVR. It's their default mortgage rate, offering a glimpse into their overall competitiveness. Comparing different lenders' SVRs can help you identify those offering potentially better deals, although exceptions always exist.

The Fluctuation Factor:

The SVR isn't static. It moves up or down depending on the economy and the lender's decisions. The biggest influencer? The Bank of England's Base Rate. Recent years have seen low Base Rates, leading to favorable mortgage rates for borrowers. But remember, things can change, so be prepared for potential future rate hikes.

Beyond the SVR:

Many mortgages start with introductory rates, often lower than the SVR, but they switch to the SVR after a fixed period. These include capped and collared mortgages. There are also fixed-rate and interest-only mortgages, which we'll explore later. When considering introductory rates, factor in the future SVR.

Locking Yourself In:

Some mortgages come with a tie-in period, meaning you're stuck with the lender for a set time, even after the introductory offer ends. Early exit penalties often apply during this period.

Interest Intricacies:

Understanding how interest is calculated and charged is crucial. Some lenders calculate it daily, benefiting you as your balance shrinks each month. Others do it monthly or annually, with annual being less favorable since you pay interest on the entire balance for a year, even if you've paid some down. Additionally, ensure your interest is charged in arrears, not in advance.

Remember:

Consult a financial advisor to assess your situation and determine if a variable rate mortgage is right for you.
Shop around and compare SVRs and other terms from different lenders.
Don't be afraid to negotiate for better rates or terms.

Variable rate mortgages can be a good option for some borrowers, but careful consideration and financial planning are essential. By understanding the SVR and other key factors, you can make informed decisions and navigate the mortgage maze with confidence.

Key Takeaways: