Month: April 2012

Tips On Maintaining A Healthy Lawn

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When a home has a well maintained lawn if not only looks beautiful but also draws attention.  It becomes a place that your guests and family will gravitate toward.  You will find that instead of your kitchen be the one area in the home that is the center of activity that the area outside will be where your friends and family will want to be.  A lawn that is cared for lends itself to lounging, the stage for parties, games and a variety of other entertaining options.  A home on water or a home with a bonfire pit often becomes the home which is utilized for all the fun gatherings amongst friends.

 

In order to maintain a healthy lawn that looks and feels like a space people want to be it will take a lot of hard work.  Often people find they are so busy in the spring, summer and fall that hiring out the lawn maintenance chores is often a more practical and cost effective item to budget in.  Professional landscapers are not only available for landscape design and landscaping installation but can also be hired to maintain the lawn year round.  Let them spend the countless hours making your home’s lawn the envy of the neighborhood, your friends and family while you are able to reap the benefits a beautiful landscape offers.

 

If hiring a professional is not within your budget or if you prefer to work in the yard yourself the benefits to having a lush lawn are not the only ones you will be receiving.  Many professionals in the health field will advise that gardening helps to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  It allows for time in nature which helps reduce stress and keep individuals moving and fit. The following tips may help your lawn to stay updated and desirable along with keeping you, the homeowner, happy, healthy and stress free.

Knowing your lawn type

Not everyone who enjoys gardening and lawn maintenance is an expert.  This is why before you begin taking on all the lawn cores you need to get to know your lawn and landscape.  There are a variety of grasses that can be chosen to be the base within your landscape.  The right grass seed will give the lawn a whole new look and feel.  The type of grass you pick will allow you to properly maintain your lawn and allow you to make the future arrangements, such as fertilizing and proper watering, to maintain the lawn and keep it beautiful.  Just remember with the variety of lawn seeds comes a variety of prices.  It is important for homeowners to create a budget, set preferences for feel and color and take in to account the time and temperature needed to grow the seeds verse the time and temperature of your area.  Before you purchase anything consider the above and you are guaranteed a choice that the results will leave you pleased.

Starting with a healthy base

The lawns soil is critical to the success of your lawn.  Without a solid foundation for your seed you are wasting time and effort as well as funds.  You will want to start with a healthy base soil that has the texture, essential nutrients and acidity balance needed for perfect soil.  Determine the quality of soil you currently have with a basic soil test.  From here you can improve the quality of your soil using organic compost, manure and grass and leave clippings.

Creating balance with fertilization

 

In order to keep the nutrients needed for a healthy lawn it is important to provide fertilization to your grass.  There is a balance that needs to be created.  Over fertilization can lead to issues and over fertilization can too. The key ingredients to healthy soil, thus a healthy lawn, are the right balance of phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium.  It is best to seek advice from professionals if you are having issues or want clarity when it comes to the nutrients needed in your soil.  This is true for landscaping plants and bushes that enhance a lawn as well.

 

These few basic tips should have you well on your way to a terrific base product for entertaining your family and friends.  Lawn maintenance and upkeep is not overly difficult if the right balance of time and energy is given to the task at hand.  Once you have a base lawn the landscape design will fall into place.  Your lawn will become the outer layer you desired as a base on the canvas of your home.

 

Bladerunners Landscape

Tips On Hiring A Water Damage Restoration Specialist

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When an emergency or disaster strikes it seems though many people become skeptical of companies in which offer specialized emergency disaster restoration services.  The first thoughts and feeling that are experienced are that clean up should begin immediately and that we as homeowners should begin the process now rather than wait to contact and contract with a professional in disaster clean up.  Michigan residents experience many natural disasters from elements outside of their control.  Michigan is varied in weather which can be to blame for several types of emergency situations.

 

We experience tornados, hails, strong winds, droughts, floods, periods of heavy rain, ice, snow and extreme temperature changes.  These weather events can cause issues with a home such as a roof leak, plumbing issues, burst pipes and even flooding.  Many homeowners choose to clean up the situation themselves.  They believe this effort will save money but in fact in the long run can end up costing a homeowner almost double verse hiring a professional restoration company.

 

There are many benefits to using a reputable, experienced, professional disaster restoration contractor to fix water damage; fire damage and mold damage are outweighed.  Most insurance companies cover issues expenses associated with emergency clean up.  The circumstances surrounding the event and you current coverage will determine exactly what you will be covered for.  One benefit to hiring a restoration company is that they will also help in filing claims with your insurance companies and can best relay the damage in terms most conducive to getting a claim approved.  Most catastrophe clean-up companies have software devoted to prepare and outline the estimate for clients and insurance adjusters.  This allows access for the review process on the entire scope of the job including labor and material costs.

 

Even if one hundred percent of the disaster clean-up effort is not covered it is still in a homeowner’s best interest to hire a professional company to come in and help in the repair of the home to avoid issues later on down the road.  An example of this is any dampness left in water restoration can leave an environment susceptible to produce mold spores.

 

Another major plus involved in contracting the clean-up effort of your home with a professional service is the wide range of jobs they are able to service.  When a home is damaged because of fire or smoke a restoration company may offer the following services to their clients; storage of household goods, cleaning, maintenance of the homes inventory both compromised and non-restorable, removal of contents, deodorization, reconstruction, emergency securing of the scene, packing, furniture refinishing and reupholstering and repair of appliances and electronics.

 

Water damage restoration services may include drying methods that use heat for quick evaporation of the areas and items of the home affected.  They also will dehumidify the area which reduces moisture on surfaces and will use high powered fans for air circulations to help restore the home quickly.  All of this helps alleviate the possibility of mold and mildew occurring because of left over moisture in the home from the water damage.

 

The services a disaster restoration company can offer their clients far exceed the clean-up efforts that most homeowners could supply on their own.  When you contract with an emergency disaster restoration firm you are ensured that their ability to use every method and procedure it takes to achieve maximum results to avoid further issues for the homeowner.   It may seems hard to believe however you will find that these service professionals will eventually become entrusted members of your team in restoring your home to full function leaving you stress free and on the road to having your life all in one piece again.

 

Maher

The Importance Of Land Surveying In The World We Live In Today

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Many individuals may not be aware but the world’s second-oldest profession is land surveying.  Land survey is simply the art and science of mapping and measuring land.  Land survey is vast in scope but truly comes down to people’s land boundaries and where they are located.  Land surveys are critical for buildings, railroads, skyscrapers, airports and bridges.  A prime example of when a land survey is necessary is when a fence is added to a yard.  Without knowing exact boundaries the fence permit will never happen so in this case as in many a land survey is needed.

 

Boundary surveys are a vital part of the design and construction element of any projects.  A boundary survey is conducted to give a precise location to the property that is in question.  A land survey professional will come and inspect the topography of the land for many reasons.  First the engineering design needs precise land surveying results for the main purpose of designing.  A key element in site design is to ensure that the land in question is elevated to prevent building floods.

 

A title survey helps to facilitate any type of real estate transaction and certifies that a dwelling is built according to the design that was approved.  Surveying is needed for so many different activities.  For instance in order to dredge a river bottom or other body of water a map (survey) must be taken to pinpoint precise locations to avoid unnecessary complications.  Another prime example of how a land survey is beneficial is when mapping out property for public use such as tunnels, roadways, air traffic and air ports, pipes, cabling and railways.  A land survey also is necessary when splitting a parcel of land into several smaller lots.

 

The basics involved in field surveyor’s duties include elements involving measuring, mapping and observing the land.  A tool known as a total station helps land surveyors.  Land surveyors derive elevations of the land using total station along with geometry, angel measurements as well as distances along with GPS that shows intersections from space satellites.  A surveyor will report data in a concise manner into the office which will then pass info on to a client.  Contractors rarely work directly with a land surveyor yet coordinate plans with office staff.

 

In order to have success as a surveyor basic knowledge regarding zone, building and planning regulations must be know and changes should be kept up on.  It is also important to know health policies, wetland regulations and rules regarding general land use.  You must be able to apply previous learned techniques together with the latest in technology advances to measure land. It is essential to the success of the land surveyor that their equipment is kept up to date including computers, lasers and satellite technology.

 

Land surveying is critical in the world we live in today.  A professional land surveyor can help to eliminate issues that arise because of land boundaries.  They are also the first people to be called in when advances and improvements are being made to public spaces and land we all use regularly.  It is important to recognize that only one job of a surveyor is boundary line management the many other hats they were ensure public safety and allow us modern day conveniences such as bridges, roads and airports.

Monument Engineering

Finding The Perfect Fence and Fencing Contractor For Your Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Finding out your contractor is not fulfilling all those promises we confessed upon meeting you the very first time is not unheard of.  Many homeowners have been burnt by professional who says one thing but do another.  Finding a contractor that does what he says he does is rare so when we were looking into installing a fence we knew we needed to prepare.  We needed to ask ourselves if the job should be completed by us without professional, hiring a fence installation professional (praying he does what he promises) or a combination of both.

 

Yep, you guessed it after being burned enough we decided (in the beginning) to forgo the professional assistance and try this home improvement on our own.  The first thing we did to get started is by contacting our local township to look into any local ordinances that may prevent us from using certain fences and materials.  We are in an area that is not governed by an HOA but if you are you will also want to check in with them before you begin your project or purchase materials to make yourself aware of any special restrictions.

 

Where I live we are not under any restriction to the type of fence material we can use, height of fencing, spacing or colors that are acceptable.  We are found we are restriction free and may have decorative aluminum, wood, picket or chain link fence.  Whatever our hearts desire we can install.  I have heard of many neighborhoods allowing wood fencing however not all styles.  Picket and split rail wood fences may be allowed but privacy fence not permitted due to a restriction on height.

 

If your fence is being used to enclose a pool areas you will want to check into that specifically.  Even if you do not have any restrictions with a yard fence a fence surrounding a pool is completely different and should be asked about specifically. Installing a pool fence that does not meet your local or state laws can be costly if it has to be removed and a new one reinstalled all because the wrong material was used to enclose the pool.

 

 

As I mentioned in the beginning we thought installing a fence on our own would be no big deal however after settling on a fence we loved we knew we were in over our heads.  The aluminum decorative fencing we ordered was elaborate and needed professional installation.  Being that there are a number of fencing companies available throughout Michigan it is important that our first stop was the BBB in our area.  Along with checking in to make sure we were dealing with only people known to be rated as professionals we next went to our family, friends and co-workers to determine if anyone had recently had a fence installed and used one of the BBB recommended professionals.  Thankfully one stood out as a reference from a colleague.  We were able to determine that the company operated in a manner that was expected in a professional arena.

 

 

I contacted them and invited them to our home to meet with them to discuss our expectations and theirs.    It is important to make sure when working with any professional in your home that they all of the necessary permits and licenses required for their occupation/business.  On top of the reference we already had we asked for several others.  It was important to make sure people have all had the same experience with this company that you hope to have.  Trust me; any reputable company will be happy to freely give references.

 

One thing to remember when hiring a professional fence installation company is to know that handymen often offer their services under the caveat that they can do anything.  This is however not the case when it comes to fence installation.  It is not a one size fits all job.  I know we attempted to believe we could do it on our own and quickly learned that fence installers are professionals that know there business.  The phrase you get what you pay for is true when it comes to fence installation. The handyman (or your husband) may be cheaper but it will show in the finished product.

 

Once your instincts and research have helped you choose a business professional you are comfortable with it is time to discuss pricing.  Fence installation done by a professional will use several factors in determining their fee.  The size of the yard, the material being used, prep time needed and time frame will all work in determining the installation expense. A discount may be offered if you buy the fence from the company installing it however this was not the case in our situation.  We found a great deal on the decorative aluminum fence we desired.

 

Vinyl fence, aluminum fence and wrought iron fencing is low maintenance.  Wood fence can often require more effort to maintain.  This is something else to consider on top of the installation.  Make certain you know exactly what you are getting for your buck.  Above all it is important to remind yourself that no matter the expense a fence will improve the value of your home and become the best neighbor you could ever have for privacy and a feeling of personal space within your landscape.

 

SAC Fence

Simple Tips To Regaining Your Financial Future Hiring A Bankruptcy Attorney

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The decision to begin the process of retaining a bankruptcy attorney can seem frustration and desperate.  Every emotion on the spectrum can be seen during this time.  Relief, loss of control, you name it if the time comes that you realize a bankruptcy is in your future you will feel it.  One more piece to this very frustration puzzle comes when it is time to find an attorney to represent your best interest through the entire bankruptcy process.

When the process begins to feel overwhelming remember that there is an end in sight. There are many wonderful bankruptcy attorneys in your area that are ready to serve your best interest.  This is a time in your life where asking for a reference to an attorney who specializes in bankruptcy can be a bit of a challenge and leads to embarrassment so where are you to turn?  One option is to turn to the Internet.

The Internet can lead you into a wonderful direction when it comes to finding a bankruptcy attorney in your area that strictly practices in bankruptcy law.  This is important because an attorney that is only focused in on one area of specialty is better equipped to keep abreast of the changes in the law.  The best was to find a variety of attorneys in your area is to go into Google and search “bankruptcy attorney your location and state”.  This will be a good starting point in the process of locating representation.

Finding an attorney that is willing to meet with you for a consultation should come with ease.  Most bankruptcy attorneys offer clients a free initial consultation to meet and review your situation.  There are questions you need to ask.  Here are just a few examples:

  • How long have you been practicing Bankruptcy Law?
  • Are you a fully board certified in the laws surrounding Bankruptcy?
  • On average, how many clients do you assist in filing for Bankruptcy?
  • What is the ration between clients filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, Chapter 11 and Chapter 13?
  • What are the fees involved in filing Bankruptcy?
  • Have you always been on time in meeting deadlines with the court for clients?
  • How successful have your Bankruptcy filings been?

You will instantly know if you feel comfortable speaking with this individual based on a call or an initial sit down meeting.  If you are hesitant at all this is not the attorney you will want to choose.  You will be divulging sensitive information with this person and should feel completely comfortable in doing so.  You will not want to hide anything from them so if this is not a person in whom you are fully able to disclose information then you will need to get your Google list back out and begin again.

The factors in filing bankruptcy all wrap around the amount of money you bring in verse the amount of money you have going out.  If you find yourself in a situation with your home that you are completely upside down, your credit cards are maxed and you are barely able to make minimum payments or you have medical bills that make paying your other debt then it is possible bankruptcy is an option for you.  Not everyone will qualify to file for bankruptcy. It is a situation to use in extreme cases of individuals needing relief from an overwhelming debt.  Finding a bankruptcy attorney to represent your case is the first step towards a fresh financial future, choose wisely.

Michigan Bankruptcy Law Centers

Start Your Wedded Life Out Right With The Perfect Diamond Engagement Ring

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Marriage is when two people combine their lives into one new adventure.  It is the moment of truth, when you are giving more of yourself to someone else than you expect to receive in return.  The commitment of marriage and the event of a wedding give reason to want and expect the best.  If this is going to be you’re “happily ever after” then at the very least it has to be nothing short of perfection.  This starts from the very beginning gentlemen, so listen up.  You start this whole wedding/marriage thing out on the right note by selecting the most amazing engagement ring.  How in the world, you ask yourself, are you going to make sure you get something that will amaze your beautiful bride to be?

 

There are many things to consider when asking for a ladies hand in marriage.  One thing you should decide is if you are requesting her hand in marriage with her knowledge and for sight in the whole process.  This is important if you think she would prefer to be a part of the selection process of her ring or is she more apt to love the excitement of being surprised when you finally decide it is time.  Again, this is something to consider based on if you think she already is aware that a proposal is impeding and the amount of input she would like to have in picking out the ring that will be a part of her for the rest of her life.  Many women are excited about the whole proposal and like being surprised at the choice her mate has made for her.

 

The first step to take if you have decided that you would like to surprise your girl friend with a proposal is to determine, to the best of your ability, what she wants.  The idea of seeing a shiny diamond engagement ring in a velvet box is ideal however if you were to somehow gauge ahead of time a preference.  The first step to this is to actively start listening.  Almost all women will drop hints. It is up to you to decipher the code.  I guarantee she will eventually let you know what she wants without you ever having to ask or call her attention to the event.

Another tip is to take a sneak peek into her jewelry box and see what type of jewelry she tends to purchase for herself.  Take a look at her.  What does she wear daily now?  Does she like jewelry with color?  Is she into more classic styles? Or does she prefer chunky rings?  This should give you a good idea of something she would choose for herself.

Another aspect you will need to find out is the size of her ring finger. This is not only important for the obvious, you want to ensure the ring will fit perfectly as she will for surely want to wear it immediately but also different size fingers are destined for rings and diamonds of different sizes and shapes.  For instance a fine, classic, delicate ring works more easily on a shorter hand while it could get lost on a long, slim finger. The opposite is true also.  A large and bold chunky piece with extra gem stones could look awkward on a hand with shorter fingers.  The width of the band also affects its appearance on the hand as well.

The stone shape in itself is an important.  The most common shape for a diamond is round, otherwise known as a diamond solitaire engagement ring.  There are a variety of shapes, sizes and colors in diamonds.  A choice should be made on personal choice.  Women accent their hands using their jewelry.  If your significant other has short fingers it might be beneficial to opt away from the popular solitaire and look at oval diamond engagement rings, those length short-handed fingers.

If you are feeling bewildered you can enlist the aid of another female. Unless you are afraid the surprise might be ruined. Another option is to choose a loose diamond for the proposal event and later takes your bride-to-be to pick out the perfect setting.  This is also a good comprise if you are nervous about making such a big decision on your own.

DaRoche Jewelers

Improving Quality Of Life With Age In Place Upgrades

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The first visions that goes through your head when I mention a terms such as home renovation or home remodel is probably of a room addition or kitchen renovation.  However, the one major home renovation on the rise here in Michigan has nothing to do with either of them yet all to do with the aging demographic.   Modernizing a home for age in place living is easier than ever with contractors specializing in handicap construction popping up everywhere.

An age in place remodeling project begins when a family brings in an older relative to live with them and their mobility needs have to be met.  Also, some aging individuals choose to remain in their own home and need accommodations set in place to ensure maximum safety as well as functionality.  The questions still remain the same in either circumstance; how do you achieve maximum functionality in the home, keeping your loved one safe in the most cost effective manner.

Beginning any age in place remodeling one thing to keep in mind is the future of the home.  At some point the house will need to be sold.  With this in mind all upgrades and changes should be consistent with the style of the home, add safety and allow for an individual to function independently.  Some general suggestions to accommodate physical changes that occur to the body as we age are as follows:

  • When initially remodeling your home make it so everything you need is accessible on one floor or accommodate a chair lift in the design.  Ranch level homes are most adequate for maneuverability of individuals throughout.  With a few simple modifications to allow for easier access, multi-level homes can function quite nicely as well for aging individuals or for those with handicaps that limit them in terms of mobility.
  • Doorways can be easily widened when upgrading old doors throughout the home.  Wider doorways ease access for wheelchair users, walkers and canes.  This type of modification will blend into the home and not pop out as an age in place renovation.  This type of renovation is best for resale.
  • Plan for entry into the home using a porch that includes a wheelchair access ramp.  As we age this is helpful for individuals whose knees don’t function like they used to or those using a device to help with their mobility.  Most wheelchair ramps can be built as a permanent structure onto the home or as a temporary structure depending on the desired need.
  • Think ahead as much as possible.  If an individual is in their late forties, early fifties and in the midst of having a bathroom remodel or kitchen renovation it is time to begin thinking about adding in place features to help for aging. Items such as bathroom grab bars, barrier free showers or storage in a kitchen within an optimal reach zone or drawers instead of cupboards.  These are all easy adjustments to make when planning for major room renovation.
  • Another easy transformation is adding levers or pulls instead of knobs.  This is an easy addition to any door or cupboard.  This is also a way to add style to a home.  The variety of colors, textures and styles of levers and pulls available add to the style of any home.
  • Flooring renovations are another area that help with age in place movement and increase a home’s attractiveness.  Carpet is often difficult for walkers and wheelchairs to maneuver. The installation of hardwood flooring or flooring renovations that include smooth surfaces will greatly improve the quality of movement and decrease the risk of falls.

A few easy age in place renovations can add up to a safe place for individuals to age in place.  If you are making accommodations in your home for a loved one it is possible to add safety without taking away the style of your home.  Renovations are no longer bulky and out in the open.  Handicap construction in 2012 leaves individuals unable to recognize anything other than stylish updates to a home.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Tips On A Career Change To Network Marketing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Have you ever made a career change only to wonder after three weeks if you made the right decision?  Once you have started to second guess yourself the end is near.  Often when individuals turn to network marketing for a career change they envision loads of money, tons of opportunities to grow and tons of leads.  However, the change happens, you move careers and all of a sudden you find yourself alone.  Why has this happened?  Often this happens when you sign on to a company that is far from reputable.  How can you guarantee that you find yourself that does not allow you to become anything other than successful?

In order to become successful within network marketing it is important to consider and evaluate a few characteristics before joining any network marketing opportunities.  Many different characteristics need to be evaluated and thought through before you join a network business opportunity.  The first thing to remind yourself of is that any network marketing opportunity is that it will take time, effort and a fair amount of work to find yourself amongst top network marketers in any company.  Working with a networking company with proven success and an experienced team behind you will lead to you to a higher success rate in network marketing.

What You Are Selling

What is the product or service you are going to be selling?  Is the market one in which will see growth or is it a declining industry?  It is not a good idea to base your financial future on a product that is an industry fad.  In networking opportunities it important to sell based on diversity as well.  Is the product or service that you are offering viable for men and women, all ages and demographics?

These are all important elements in deciding if you are considering becoming a network marketing consultant for their product or service.  It is impossible to sell something of little to no value.  It is important that you are marketing something that is high quality.  Only place your name alongside something you are proud to represent.

Look Into The Company

It is important before aligning with a company that you know who they are and make sure they represent the same things that you do.  Look into their management team; have the proven to be a united team with a track record that backs this?  In the industry they represent are they well thought of with a high reputation?  It is important to ensure the company has a solid financial back and that they are not currently drowning from the debt they carry.  In times when the economy is bleak how has this company fared?  The last thing you want is to build a solid foundation within a networking business to see your residual income earnings flushed away due to a crack in the firm.

Compensation Plans

Let’s face it we are not building a work from home business opportunity not to make money.  Your efforts will need to be compensated.  This is an important feature to know upfront.  Knowing that the effort and time you have to put into the opportunity is equivalent to the wage.  Is this a part –time or full-time business opportunity?  Do you make money only by selling your products or is it important to recruit new entrepreneurs?

Get To Know The Team

One thing that is prevalent in almost every network marketing opportunity is a team.  Even though networking businesses lend to making money from home the team behind the scene is important for several reasons.  The team that you will be working with should exhibit integrity.  Evaluate the way they conduct business and recruit.  Does the team seem honest or do they use deceptive tactics to lure employees and sales?  Can you for see yourself connecting with the other sales people?

All of these different questions should be looked at to determine if the company is a fit for you.  If everything aligns and you have positively answered the above questions all you need is the time and effort.  The company you have chosen will help you on your path to success.

Arbonne - Leslie Hipp

Choosing The Right Promotional Product For Your Company

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Are you a business owner?  Have you ever thought about using promotional products to represent your business?  Are not sure what promotional items would best be suited for your type of business?  While there are several thousand terrific products to choose from, not every item is right for every business.  When considering your options take time to analyze your customers and exactly what would be the most effective promotional product to use to keep your company logo top of mind at all times.

Below are some examples that will help you on your way to choosing promotional items that you work to market your company in the most effective way:

If you are in a field such as insurance, banking, finance or any position that focuses around an office then products and services would benefit from promotional item that are used in an office.  Office supplies can range from pens to calendars.  Consider items such as sticky-notes, planners, magnets and unique office accessories.  This type of promotional gift will be appreciated by employees and important clients.  These promotional products will be appreciated and useful.

Another popular promotional gift used to market a variety of businesses if reusable bags with your company logo embellished on the outside of the bag.  Bags can also store hidden goodies from your business such as magnets, pens and pads of list paper.  These are all perfect items for the consumers who will be using your reusable bags at the store most often.  Busy eco-conscience mom love free goodies and a reusable bag will keep your company logo in the eye of the public as well as this individual consumer.  This is a true double duty promotional tool for companies.

Clothing with your firm’s logo is a great way to show employee appreciation and promotion for customers.  Promotional logo clothing should be reserved for situations where you can afford to supply free clothing products which can be a pricier promotional product to consider as an option.  These items are best used sparingly for free giveaway prizes at trade shows, golf outings and company picnics.

If your company is in the home construction, home sales, appliance business or something of that nature than promotional household items will be a great advertisement for your company. For instance, if you are a general contractor and have just finished a job a promotional item such as a bread carving kit or knife set would be appropriate.  It is useful for their home and in direct line with the service you provided for them.

These are just a few ways in which promotional products can be utilized in advertising your company. The ultimate decision for the promotional item best suited for your company is determined by the need and budget that is set.  Promotional products can be purchased with every budget and industry.  Another consideration is the occasion that you intend the product for.  Picnic events for employees may get by with fun, plastic Frisbees but will not be well received in corporate gift baskets.  Take some time and determine the right combination of promotional products for your company logo to adorn.

The Corporate Game

Home Renovations Tips On Hiring A General Contractor

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

What comes to mind when I say home remodeling?  Dread I bet! Remodeling, renovations, sprucing up, whatever you want to call it can all be done without headaches guaranteed.  I know it is hard to believe but it is possible to do kitchen and bathroom remodeling, flooring renovations, home additions, porch upgrades and general upgrades without stress or breaking the budget.

Our home, like many, is in a constant state of repair and could always benefit from a minor remodel or home renovation.  I can think of many things that need to be done right now.  The bathroom renovations would include a flooring renovation along with updates faucets and a new styled mirror.  The kitchen remodel could easily start with cabinet refinishing, flooring upgrade and hardware touches.  This is not to mention we could use a room addition for extra storage and possible a guest bedroom along with some work in the basement.  A basement transformation would be on that wish list too.  I am sure if you spoke with my husband an out building, shed addition would be first on his list.

Of course these are the major things.  This does not touch base on the millions of little items that could use some handyman touches.  The doors get loose, moldings could be updated, crown molding added, pavement outside needs some repair and I am sure you could find some lose boards on our porch and deck not to mention some staining efforts could be used.  There is always something big or small to be done.

This is when I begin to tell you the secret to painless home renovations.  Listen close. The key to stress free remodeling is to hire a trusted contractor.  When you hire a contractor you are not only hiring that person but a team of experts that support him.  A licensed contractor has resources available at the touch of a button.  If you need an electrician, a plumber, general handyman, painter or skilled carpenter they will be able to show you the way to a trusted professional.  I am not saying that finding a contractor will be easy but the effort will pay for itself tenfold.

There are some things that will help lead the way in helping you find a licensed skilled contractor that best fits your need. The first step in finding a contractor you want to work with is to get a list of contractors from friends, family and acquaintances have used in the past.  This is a great place to start.  If you are new to the area a quick Google search will lend a hand in supplying a number of home renovation specialists.  A terrific way in which to find out a lot of information quickly is to check their website.  A website is the front window to their “store”.  Your gut will help steer from here on whether you want to interview them in person.

Once you have a list the next step is to call and do some preliminary checking.  You will want to only work with insured, licensed contractors.  This is an important first question.  If they are not licensed and insured move on to the next home remodeler as a possible source for your renovation needs.  Eventually you will decide on a few to meet in person.  Ask them to bring a portfolio with references.  Most general contractors will let you know what their specialty is.  Finding a home remodeling specialist will not be difficult.  Your first impression will immediately tell you whether or not this person is someone that is a professional or a quack.  Ask basic questions, get a general feel and move forward.  It is this simple.

A contractor should be willing to vouch for the professionals they hire to work alongside them.  Professional renovators will ensure satisfaction and will guarantee that a job is not complete until the client is one hundred percent satisfied.  Once you have found someone you like. Trust and that does work that impresses you refer them often and use them often.  A reliable general contractor is a commodity and should be treated as one.  You will find that the quality of work they do is good but is better when you are pleasant and helpful in continuing to help them grow their business as well.

Jason Foldenauer Construction