Livingston Reporting - page 258

Outdoor Spring Cleaning

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When the winter season is upon us we find ourselves hibernating in the house.  As the winter season comes to an end the springtime itch starts to take hold and we realize that there is a lot to do around the homestead to get clean and organize.  The minute the weather lets up and the spring arrives it is time to ditch the winter blues and start to take advantage of the fresh, warm weather and start to freshen up your home.

Below are a few simple tips to perform to ensure your home is in tip top shape for spring:

Roof Maintenance

The spring season is the perfect time to hire a roofing contractor to inspect your roof.  The winter season is harsh on shingle roofs. The snow and ice can lead to many cracked and missing shingles that you will want repaired or replaces before the springtime rain appears.  Be sure the roofing contractor thoroughly inspects the flashing, especially around the chimney.  The flashing will need to be caulked every few years to keep the seal from leaking.  The trees around the roof line should be trimmed and the debris removed to ensure your shingles stay in great shape for the season ahead.

Gutter Cleaning

Gutters that are cluttered with debris can cause rain water to build up along the roof.  In time this can cause leaks and cracks throughout the roof line which can lead to issues with the homes structure.   Leaves, debris and fallen tree branches should be removed from the gutter.  Mud can settle at the bottom of the gutters throughout the winter.  It is pertinent that the gutters run clear to avoid any backups that can come with the spring time rains.

Fence Preservation

Spring is the perfect time to perform maintenance on your homes fence.   Water saturates the ground and the fence can become loose.  To avoid issues, walk around the fences perimeter checking for loose sections and dry rot, fix or replace all areas affected by the winter weather.  Regular maintenance and updates will help to ensure the fence is in tip top shape for years to come.

Yard Clean Up

Get rid of all the saturated wet debris around the yard and within the landscaping.  Mold can be found under wet leaves, dead plants, and fallen limbs throughout the yard.  The mold is incredibly unhealthy and once it attaches to your home’s structure you can be in for bigger troubles.  Clean up the space and allow the landscape and yard to completely dry before moving forward in landscape mode.

These are just a few tips to help get your home ready for the spring season.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home Pro Roofing MI

, , , , , , , ,

The Start Of Spring Cleaning

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Once spring arrives after the long winter freeze homeowners become anxious to get their spring cleaning on.  There are a million things to get done before summer. Below you will find a list of things to accomplish during your spring cleaning.

1)      Roof Maintenance:  In order to keep your homes structure strong it is crucial that you keep water from building up and entering your home through damaged or missing shingles.  Water also can enter the home when gutters are backed up and back up under shingles on to the roofs foundation.  It is important to eliminate issues that can arise with your roof before they begin to show signs of damage.  A roofing contractor is really the best way to go when it comes to looking for issues on your roof.  A roofer knows what they are looking for and can easily spot issues in need of repair before you find yourself replacing the entire roof.

2)      Tree Trimming: Walk around your entire yard and check to ensure that all of your trees are in good shape.  Trim branches that are weak or dying.  If you notice any large cracks in any of the trees trunks or any root damage it is crucial that you work to secure and repair the damage.

3)      Carpet Cleaning: The winter season brings with it a lot of slush and mud into your home leaving carpets and rugs dirty.  Vacuuming throughout the season can help but to avoid the dirt from setting in you will want to deep clean your carpets and rugs.  Hot water and shampoo will help make the carpets clean and looking their best while sanitizing them.

4)      Washing Walls: If you don’t keep up on cleaning the walls in your home at least once a year you will find that there is a buildup of dirt behind wall hangings and fixtures.  The best time to wash walls is the spring.  There is little to know humidity which will help allow the walls to dry quickly.  Pay special attention to the areas behind your appliances.  The stove, dryer and refrigerator will have more built up dirt than other spaces so pay special attention to those areas and use a more stringent disinfectant.

5)      Power Washing/Window Washing:  Take time at the beginning of the spring season to power wash your home and deck.  This process removes the buildup of mildew and mold that occurs when the space stays moist and is not allowed to thoroughly dry as happens during the winter. After you are done washing your house take time to clean both the inside and outside of the windows.  This will make the view ten times better.

Take on one project at a time when spring cleaning.  The whole concept is to make your home clean and free of clutter so that you can enjoy the beauty that comes with spring.  Give yourself a space inside and out to enjoy the fresh smell of spring and the beautiful landscaping that is blooming around your home.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home Pro Roofing MI

, , , , , , , ,

Aluminum Fencing Made Simple

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Purchasing an aluminum fence does not need to be a difficult process.  In fact the purchase of a fence for the perimeter of a home’s yard is something that is quiet normal for most homeowners.  The dream of a white picket fence is now easier than ever to have and without the maintenance of yesteryears ideal white wooden picket fences.  With aluminum fencing you can have the fence of your dream installed within weeks, virtually maintenance free.

Determine Your Aluminum Fencing Needs

The first step in purchasing an aluminum fence is deciding what purpose the fence will serve.  Are you in need of a perimeter fence that will keep your kids and pets in and others out?  Do you need an aluminum fence for the perimeter of your swimming pool to ensure that without adult supervision young ones aren’t able to access the pool?  The reason you are purchasing the fence will allow you to adequately determine the grade of fencing needed as well as the specific height to purchase.

Before You Purchase Aluminum Fencing

Planning is essential before purchasing an aluminum fence.  It is penitent that you take into consideration a variety of things not only with the design and layout of the fence but also the installation.  Before a fence is purchased it is important that you check with local ordinances placing restrictions on fencing in your area.  Some cities and states have specific regulations in regards to fencing materials, heights and styles that are allowed.  If you live in an area with a homeowners association meet with them as well to discuss your plan and ensure it meets with community regulations.

Hire a property surveyor to determine your property lines.  The last things you want to do are design and order a fence for the property lines you measure that aren’t really yours.  Redesigning a fence once you have ordered all the specific pieces is not simple or fun.

It is your responsibility to ensure that all underground utility lines have been accounted for.  If you are digging and hit a gas line you are responsible.  It is better not to hit anything in the first place because repairs only add time to the task of installing your aluminum fence.

Physically draw out and place perimeter markings for the fence.  Use stakes and string to visually place the fence.  From here you will want to use larger marking points to place the gates and agreed upon access points.  By simply using a few stakes and some string you will get a visual on your fence.  This will help to ensure that any obstacle is considered prior to ordering your new aluminum fencing.  You will see if a tree is in line with the perimeter you were consider.  This will allow you the ability to either choose to cut the tree down or place the fence further in or outside of the trees range.  It will also help show you were different slopes are in the space.  This will allow you to order rackable aluminum fence for those locations.

Ordering Aluminum Fence Panels, Posts, Hardware and More

Online ordering of your new aluminum fence is easier than ever with the help of design studios and expert customer service representatives.  The best online companies only hire representative who have experience within the industry.  This allows them to better understand your needs and how their product can help to meet them.

Installing Aluminum Fences

The process of installing aluminum fencing has been simplified over the years.  Aluminum fencing panels are now shipped fully assembled.  Easy step by step, detailed instructions and a top notch customer service team to fall back on to aide you will ensure your aluminum fence is installed in a weekend.

iFence USA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Finding The Right Aluminum Fence For Your Needs

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Choosing an ornamental aluminum fence comes with so many choices that one can be quickly overwhelmed.  Aluminum fencing comes in several different grades, styles, colors, heights and decorative options.  When you begin look for a company that offers a lifetime warranty on their aluminum fencing for defects against cracking, chipping, or peeling.  Start by choosing to purchase aluminum fencing from an online supplier that stands behind their products with a warranty.  A warranty guarantees a superior product with a superb finish.

Choose the right grade of aluminum fencing

Every online supplier will offer different grades of aluminum fencing for sale.  Breaking it down into simple form there are basically four grades of fencing.  With each increase in grade you will notice a significant change in the thickness and strength of the fence.  Residential grade fence is perfect for use to secure the perimeter of your landscape while containing small pets and children.  Commercial grade fencing is when you need a bit more home security or fencing for your business.  Industrial grade fencing is best for more challenging applications in industrial and commercial locations.

www.iFenceUSA.com offers the following options in aluminum fence grades:

  • Classic Fence – Residential Grade
  • Premier Fence – Commercial Grade
  • Ultimate Fence – Industrial Grade
  • Resort Fence – Swimming Pool Grade

Choose the right style of aluminum fencing

Finding the right style aluminum fence for your home is easier then every.  Many online suppliers offer design studios within their websites.  You will upload a picture of your space with the landscapes perimeter measurements.   From this you can get a visual image of what different fence styles and colors will look like in front of your home.  Choose a supplier with many styles of fencing to choose from.  Don’t limit yourself to online suppliers with mediocre choices.  Most reputable companies offer at least ten different styles to choose from.

www.iFenceUSA.com offers 18 different style options in aluminum fencing:

  • Sanibel
  • San Marino
  • Ventura
  • Boca Grande
  • New Orleans
  • Excelsior
  • Santa Monica
  • Bella Vista
  • Mission Point
  • Napa Valley
  • Amarillo
  • Bella Terra
  • Charlemagne
  • Camelot
  • Camarillo
  • Providence
  • Castile
  • Valencia

Choose the right color of aluminum fencing

Choose the color of your fence wisely as you can’t change it in a month if you don’t like it.  Aluminum fencing comes with an advanced power coated finish that helps to prevent rust and is designed to require very little maintenance with a pristine finish for the lifetime of the fence.  If you were to paint or manipulate the color of your fence in any manner you will void the warranty and your fence will no longer remain maintenance free.  Paint require a lot of upkeep which takes away one of the biggest advantages in aluminum fence, being virtually maintenance free.

www.iFenceUSA.com offers various color options in aluminum fencing:

  • Matte Bronze
  • Bronze
  • White
  • Matte White
  • Green
  • Beige
  • Matte Sandstone
  • Black
  • Matte Black

Choosing the right height and width of aluminum fencing

The height you choose for your aluminum fence will depend on several things including the level of protection you want.  It is also dependent upon the grade of fencing you choose.   For instance, commercial and industrial fencing is offered in taller height because of its general purpose is security.  Residential fencing is usually offered up to 5 feet because it is generally used to keep children and pets in while keeping others out.  Pool fence panels are usually 4.5 feet tall to correspond with B.O.C.A. requirements.

The widths of the panels needed are dependent upon the layout of the fence within your space.  If you have a hill in your yard you may need a section of rackable aluminum fence to compensate for the grade in the lawn.  When you are designing the fence you can vary the width if needed.  The most popular option, the one that most aluminum fence panels are sold in is 6 foot.

www.iFenceUSA.com aluminum fencing height options:

  • 3 Foot
  • 4 Foot
  • 5 Foot
  • 5 Foot
  • 6 Foot
  • 7 Foot
  • 8 Foot

www.iFenceUSA.com aluminum fencing width options:

  • 3 Foot
  • 4 Foot
  • 5 Foot
  • 6 Foot
  • 7 Foot

Choosing the decorative options of aluminum fencing

Some styles of fencing offer decorative options without any further customization.  Others offer the choice to customize the panels with ornamental options such as decorative finials, scrolls or circles.  The ornamental options in don’t offer anything to improve the quality of the fence; they are used strictly for visual appeal.  These options add to the cost of your aluminum fencing but for many people the desired effect visually is worth it.

www.iFenceUSA.com offers various ornamental options in aluminum fencing:

  • Speer Top Finials
  • Excelsior Finials
  • Fleur de Lis Finials
  • Butterfly Scrolls
  • Circles

iFence USA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , , , , ,

Hit The Jackpot With Flexible Packaging

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

All products need packaging and labels.  The package contains the product and the label markets the product; the combinations of both are needed to sell your goods to customers.  The jackpot is hit when you can combine both into one which is what you get with flexible packaging.  There are numerous benefits to combining packaging and labeling into one as is done with flexible packaging.  Below you will find a variety of reasons to look into flexible packaging when introducing or reinventing your company’s products.

  • Customization:  Flexible packaging is simple to customize depending on your needs or desires.  You can design the package to fit your product.  They can be customized to meet the needs of liquids, powders, solids and more.
  • Durability:  The longevity of your product depends in part on how durable the package is.  You want your product to be airtight to seal in the freshness.  Flexible packages are created using aluminum, high grade plastic or a combination of the two.  The sealing element of each product is durable as well from zip seals to screw top spouts.
  • Creativity:  One of the biggest benefits of flexible packages is the ability to be creative with your products labeling.  You want to stand out.   Your pouch allows for designs on both the front and back of the products package.  Creativity in flexible packaging allows you to design the front for grabbing attention and the back for all the required product information that is required.  This is especially beneficial on cleaners and products with special FDA label requirements.
  • Special Features: Flexible packages are reusable because of their special features.  They are equipped with zipper seals or screw top spouts that allow for the package to seal tightly and many to be reused.
  • Printed Labeling: Printed packages are super important and can be adjourned with any logo, colors and designs.  The printed package label is specifically designed to be engaging and attractive to your target market.
  • Size and Shape: With flexible packaging you can vary the size of the package to fit products on smaller and larger scales.  This element of flexible packaging is important as it works irrespective of the size.
  • Production: The production of flexible packages is perhaps one of its best qualities.  The production of the packaging doesn’t require an abundance of storage space like harder plastic and tin packages.  Flexible packaging, like cardboard lays flat.
  • Transportation: The benefit of flexible packaging over materials such as cardboard is the easy of transportation.  Consider how many more pouches of something can be packed into a shipping container over something like tin cans.

The benefits are numerous in choosing flexible packaging over more traditional packaging options.  With the increases in technology, flexible packaging will soon take over as a traditional method of packaging for a variety of products and industries.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

, , , , ,

Flexible Packaging Trend Changing The Package And Label Industry

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There have been many different trends within the packaging and labeling industry.  Some crazes last while some get swept under the rug before they even catch on; flexible packaging is one trend that caught on and continues to develop.  There are so many reasons that flexible packaging has taken over and begun to shape the label printing and packaging industries.   Below are some things to watch for as flexible packaging and labeling begins to capture the industry.

Flexible packaging has come on like a storm because it combines the label and package into one convenient container that is simple to open and easy to close.  Flexible packages have a wide range of mechanisms that allow the package to continue to open and close on a regular basis.  With flexible packages you aren’t limited by one time usage requirements.

Manufactures are not limited to solid products either as liquids in flexible packages are become all the rage.  Flexible beverage pouches with screw on spouts that open and close with easy are taking over the packaging industry.

Package manufacturers have taken their intentions with flexible packaging to an all new level within several different products.  Flexible packages have moved into several markets that were originally dominated by cans, plastic containers, glass and more.  You can now find soup in flexible packages as well as your laundry detergent. Liquids are now easily stored in flexible packaging because of the changes in technology that allow openers that make sealing simpler.

Another benefit of using packages that are flexible instead of hard solid form packages is production and transportation.  The production of flexible packages is less cumbersome and requires less warehouse space then their metal or plastic counterparts.  The same is true when it comes to transporting them as well.  The less space the package takes up the more packages can be made therefore reducing cost and waste, reducing the carbon footprint that is left behind.

With improvements in technology, flexible packages will continue to storm a variety of different industries.  Increases in packaging and structural changes change what can be contained within each packaged.  By adding layers into the packages structure or splitting the layers into different barriers you are better able to package vulnerable substances.  Technology is allowing layers to be introduced into flexible packaging without limiting its functionality.

The product label and package industry continues to develop.  The sky is the limit as technology increases, allowing the flexible packing industry to grow into fields once monopolized by cans, plastic and cardboard.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your product label design, printing and packaging needs.

Anchor Printing

, , , , ,

Crucial Beginning Steps In The Installation Process Of Aluminum Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Adding security and privacy to your home environment is something that most homeowners are interested in.  We look for ways to layout our landscape to provide barriers to outsiders to show that the there is a division between one property from another.  We seek privacy and seclusion when we are enjoying time with our family within our homes or yards.  One sure fire way to get both safety and solitude is with the addition of an aluminum fence around the perimeter of your landscape.

Installing aluminum fencing is no small task.  There are many considerations to ensure that your aluminum fence is designed, ordered and installed properly.  Below you will find a few concerns that need to be addressed once you have decided an aluminum fence is to be installed.

It is crucial that you check with local authorities to determine if there are any special zoning laws about fencing in your area.  Are their height limitations or boundary requirements surrounding the installation of your fence?  You will want to check with your local HOA about neighborhood guidelines that restrict the fence materials, colors, height requirements and more.  Now is the time that you have your yard surveyed as well.  The last thing you want to do is spend time and money on installing a fence only to realize it is not within your property lines.

Don’t overlook calling utility companies before you design, order, purchase and install a fence.  You do not want to overlook this step if you accidentally hit a utility line it can be incredibly dangerous and expensive to fix.  The posts need to be placed a minimum of thirty inches deep so you don’t want to run the risk of hitting a pipe or underground wire when digging.

Consider a mock up of the fence before you order or install it.  Online aluminum fence companies often have design centers on their sites. What this does is take a look at your property via pictures and measurements that have been taken and allow you to visualize the fence in your space.  From here you will have a better idea of the layout of the fence.

Sticks should be put in to place where you plan on putting the posts.  From here you will want to tie a piece of string between the sticks to ensure exactly where the fence will stand.  You will be able to see if your design needs any last minute redesigns.  This technique will allow you to account for possible differences in the height of the landscape as well as any unforeseen obstacles that were not previously considered.

Installing an aluminum fence to your landscape can add safety and solitude to your home environment.  If you are planning on installing your fence it is important to plan ahead. Follow the advice above as you plan for the installation of your new fence.

iFence USA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Do’s and Don’ts Associated With Remodeling Kitchens and Bathrooms

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to home improvements there are a bunch of do’s and don’ts.  This is never truer than it is with kitchen and bathroom renovations.  Although you need to take into consideration your personal style it is crucial to also remember that you may eventually need to sell your home.  Below you will find some tips on ensuring your kitchen and bathroom renovations don’t go awry.

It is easy to go overboard with customization when you are redoing the kitchen and bathrooms in your home.  Although your home should be customized to your needs consider the probability of recouping the expense when you seek to sell your home.  Every buyer and seller has different needs.  If a Jacuzzi is something that is beneficial to you note that the expense may not be recouped later on.  It is important not to go overboard on customization’s that will not be recouped later on.

Consider the use and cost of all of the materials used in your renovation.  When buyers are looking into purchasing a home they are looking for home of average value.  When you add an abundance of high end materials you can find yourself over pricing your home for the area in which you live.  When purchasing materials for your home improvement project make sure you take into consideration the cost of the materials verse other recent renovations in the area.

Hire a professional contractor to handle your kitchen and bath renovations.  Many people think that hiring a contractor is going to be pricey but it doesn’t have to be.  Search for a reasonable contractor that is reputable and whose work you find to be representative of the style you desire.  Hiring a kitchen and bathroom contractor saves you both time and money.  They are able to purchase materials at a discounted price and because they are experienced they save you time as well.  The quicker the renovation takes place the less disruption to your daily routine.

Utilize the space you have.  Be creative and economical when working with your contractor on bathroom and kitchen design ideas.  Purchase materials that fit within your budget and design without going overboard.  Quality materials come in all price ranges.  You don’t have to purchase the most expensive materials to have the best kitchen and bathroom renovation.  Be patient throughout the process.  Everything will fall into place as your kitchen and bath remodel comes together and at the end of the day it will be exactly as you desire.

Jason Foldenauer Construction, out of Howell and Brighton Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from kitchen and bathroom remodeling to home additions and storage sheds.  Contact http://www.jfcremodeling.com today for your entire home renovating needs.

Jason Foldenauer Construction

, , , , , , , , , ,

Affordable Age In Place Bathroom Renovations

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

More and more people in the aging population are choosing to stay living within their own homes.  With this in mind it is important to look into specific renovations to the one room where most accidents occur, the bathroom.

The first thing you need to do is add grab bars to the bathroom space.  Grab bars add additional support for seniors as they enter and exit the shower.  They also add additional support to hold on to when they are in the shower.  Grab bars need to be installed properly.   Hire an age in place specialist, a contractor that specializes in age in place remodeling as they will ensure the grab bar is installed correctly.

If you can financially afford it replace the bathtub with a stand up shower and built in shower seat.  If this is not feasible add a shower seat to the bath tub.  It is incredibly difficult for seniors to enter and exit a bathtub.  It is better to install a walk in shower space that offers a zero entry design.   This along with the addition of a shower seat and grab bars is the safest option for the seniors.

Cabinet hardware in the bathroom should be changed from knobs to pulls.  Seniors with arthritis will have a difficult time wrapping their hands around small knobs.  Cabinet pulls are easier for them to grasp and don’t require your hand to curve around the hardware.  Also lever handles are better on the bathroom door to allow for an easier entrance and exit into the space.

In order to access the supplies within the bathroom it is best to install shelving that pulls out.  This allows for easier access to the items in the back of the cabinets which makes getting access to what they need less complicated.  Pull out shelves are also a great idea for age in place remodeling with in the kitchen as well.

Another consideration to make is the placement of the electrical outlets and switches.  Seniors that are aging may need a wheelchair or walker accessibility.  Make sure that the outlets and lights are within reach at the lower height requirements.  Don’t make it so that aging seniors have to stretch to turn lights on and off.  The goal is to remain independent and this requires access.

Vision decreases throughout the aging process.  With that in mind the need for extra lighting becomes essential in the bathroom.  Add extra lights in the shower, above the vanity and throughout the space.  A light over the toilet can help as well.  Recessed lighting can be a life saver when designing for a bathroom remodel.

Making the necessary renovations and accommodations to allow seniors to age in place allows for safety while continuing to live independently.  This is especially important as we continue to live longer.

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

, , , , , ,

Choosing A Realtor

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The truth is that purchasing a home is the single most expensive investment in our lives.  In order to ensure the process of buying a new home is smooth it is important that you find a realtor to work with.  In order to find a realtor that will maximize your experience there are some things to look for when searching for someone to sell your home or assist you in purchasing a new home.

One of the first things to take into account is that you need a professional.  A realtor is someone that is a real estate professional that is a member of the National Association of Realtors, which subscribes to a strict code of ethics.  Not all agents or brokers are realtors so it is important to find a true realtor to assist you in buying or selling your home.

Experience counts when you are looking for a realtor.  Ask questions about how long that they have been a licensed realtor.  It is also important that they have been a realtor in the area that you are selling or buying a new home.  Your realtor needs to be familiar with the area and what buyers and sellers are looking for when it comes to homes in order to best serve your needs.

After you have narrowed down the field of potential realtors it is time to look into their referrals to make your final selection.  Ask their referrals about the services the realtor provided.  What was their experience buying or selling a home with the realtor?  A great question to ask is if they were going to buy or sell their home again if they would choose to use that realtor again.

You need to use the right type of realtor for your needs.  Are you going to use a conventional realtor or a buyer’s broker?  A conventional realtor works mainly for the seller.  The commission they make is off of the purchase price of the home.  Conventional realtors work to sell a home fast for the most money possible.  If you are selling your home this will work well for you however if you are buying a home you may want to look into a buyer’s broker.

A buyer’s broker will represent you as a buyer.  Buyer’s agents are not working for the seller and therefore are focused on finding a home that is perfect for you.  There is one other type, a dual agent.  This type of agent is able to take clients that are selling homes and buying homes; they represent buyers and sellers.  This may or may not be the ideal situation for you but is one that is available.

The best piece of advice to find someone you can talk comfortably with.  You will want to be honest at all times and have someone that is available and will listen to you.  It is important that you choose someone that is a great communicator and that works with you to ease any and all questions and concerns you may have.

Lake and Land Real Estate is Livingston County’s premiere realtor out of Pinckney, Michigan serving homes that provide a recreational lifestyle including golf courses, lakes and the Huron river chain of lakes, throughout Hamburg, Pinckney and Howell.  More information can be found at http://www.lakelandmi.com/.

Lake and Land Real Estate

, , , , ,