Livingston Reporting

Surety Bond Costs and What Drives Your Premium

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Surety bonds are a routine requirement across the construction industry, but securing the right bond doesn’t have to strain your budget. Understanding how bond costs are calculated—and what influences your rate—helps you make informed decisions as you prepare for upcoming projects.

What Surety Bonds Typically Cost

Surety bond premiums are charged as a percentage of the total bond amount. Most contractors fall within the 1%–5% range, though rates can dip to 0.5% for highly qualified applicants or rise to 20% in higher-risk situations.

Your rate reflects the surety’s assessment of your ability to fulfill contract obligations. For example:

  • A contractor with strong credit, solid financials, and a track record of successful work may secure a 1% rate on a $500,000 bond—paying $5,000.
  • A contractor with weak financials or poor performance history might pay 6% or $30,000 for the same bond.

Key Factors That Influence Surety Bond Rates

Sureties consider several factors when determining the risk they are assuming. The most significant include:

Bond Type:Risk varies by bond category.

  • Low-risk bonds, such as notary or probate bonds, often have lower rates.
  • Higher-risk bonds, like performance and payment bonds for complex construction work, typically come with higher premiums.

Bond Amount:Larger bond amounts carry greater exposure for the surety. Even if two contractors have similar qualifications, a $300,000 bond often commands a higher rate than a $30,000 bond because of the higher financial risk.

Credit Profile:Personal and business credit are central to underwriting. Strong credit signals reliability and increases the likelihood of favorable rates. Poor or limited credit usually results in higher premiums.

Financial Strength: Sureties evaluate working capital, liquidity, and overall financial stability. Contractors with strong balance sheets are more likely to secure lower rates because they pose less default risk.

Industry Experience: Experience matters—particularly with contract bonds. Sureties consider your technical capabilities, staffing, financial resources, and history of successfully completing similar projects. Limited experience or inconsistent performance can drive rates higher.

Claims History:A clean claims record demonstrates reliability. Frequent or significant past claims may indicate performance issues, increase perceived risk, and raise your premium.

Reputation and Character: Underwriters also look at less tangible indicators of reliability: communication practices, management stability, subcontractor relationships, and payment history. Contractors known for professionalism and integrity often benefit from more competitive rates.

Making Surety Costs Work for You

Surety bond pricing is shaped by both the scope of the project and the financial strength of the contractor. By improving credit, reinforcing financials, and building a consistent track record of successful projects, contractors can secure better rates and gain a competitive edge in bidding.

Construction Bonding Specialists supports contractors through every stage of the bonding process. Our team provides expert guidance across all construction bond types and ensures clients meet state and industry requirements with confidence. Contact us today to get started.

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At Construction Bonding Specialists, we work with new and experienced contractors to find the most satisfactory bond solutions. As a dedicated surety-bond-only agency with decades of bonding experience, we strive to discover surety solutions for all types of cases, ranging from routine to challenging. Contact us online or call us at 248-349-6227 to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Construction Bonding Specialists

Bed Bugs in Lodging Facilities: What Hotels, B&Bs, and Timeshares Need to Know

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Bed bugs are parasitic insects that feed exclusively on human blood, making hotels, B&Bs, and timeshares especially vulnerable. Measuring just 1 to 7 millimeters, they can survive for months without feeding and spread easily from room to room through luggage, linens, housekeeping carts, and shared walls.

Their flat bodies allow them to hide in areas commonly found in guest accommodations, including mattress seams, box springs, upholstered furniture, headboards, nightstands, baseboards, and even electrical outlets. Because they are nocturnal and excellent at concealing themselves, infestations often go unnoticed until guests report bites or visible signs—by which point the issue may have already spread.

For lodging properties, bed bugs are more than a pest problem. They pose a serious reputational risk, can lead to negative reviews, room closures, lost revenue, and potential liability. Professional detection and treatment are critical to protecting both guests and your business.

How Bed Bugs Are Introduced Into Homes and Buildings

Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers. They commonly enter homes through travel-related exposure, including hotels, airports, and rideshare vehicles. They can also be brought in on used furniture or spread between units in apartments, condos, and other multi-unit buildings.

Because they are so small, most people do not realize they have picked up bed bugs until the infestation is already established. Even clean, well-maintained homes are at risk, as bed bugs are not attracted to dirt or clutter—they are attracted to people.

Signs You May Have Bed Bugs

One of the most common indicators of bed bugs is waking up with bite marks, often appearing in lines or clusters on exposed skin. However, not everyone reacts to bed bug bites, which can delay detection.

Other warning signs include:

  • Rust-colored stains on sheets or mattresses
  • Small black dots (bed bug droppings) on bedding
  • Shed skins near mattress seams or furniture
  • A musty or slightly sweet odor in sleeping areas
  • Live bugs in severe infestations

Carefully inspecting mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, and nearby furniture can help confirm a problem.

What to Do If You Discover Bed Bugs in a Commercial Property

If bed bugs are suspected in a hotel, B&B, timeshare, or other commercial lodging property, quick and controlled action is critical. Avoid moving furniture, linens, or equipment between rooms, as this can spread bed bugs to unaffected areas. Immediately remove the affected room from service and seal it off until a professional inspection can be completed.

Bag all bedding and washable items in sealed plastic bags before transporting them to laundry facilities, and wash and dry on high heat. Limit access to the room and notify housekeeping and management so proper containment procedures can be followed. Vacuuming mattresses, furniture, and flooring may help reduce activity but should only be done as a short-term measure, with vacuums emptied and disposed of properly to prevent spread.

Bed bugs are highly resistant to DIY treatments, and missed eggs or hidden insects can quickly restart an infestation. For commercial properties, professional treatment is essential to ensure full elimination and to protect neighboring rooms and units.

Heat treatment is one of the most effective solutions for commercial settings, as it kills bed bugs at all life stages, including eggs. This method requires specialized equipment and trained technicians to safely and thoroughly treat the space without damaging property. Partnering with a licensed pest control professional ensures proper containment, effective treatment, and minimal disruption to your operations.

Professional Bed Bug Control for Residential and Commercial Properties in Michigan

Bed bugs are extremely difficult to eliminate without professional treatment due to their ability to hide, resist common methods, and survive for long periods without feeding. This makes expert intervention essential for both homes and commercial properties.

Northern Pest provides reliable bed bug control services throughout Michigan, using proven, effective treatments to eliminate infestations and help prevent spread. Early detection and professional response can reduce downtime, limit disruption, and protect occupants and guests. Contact Northern Pest to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward resolving a bed bug issue with confidence.

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Northern Pest: Protecting Michigan families like our own. We are licensed and insured to provide insect and wildlife pest control. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to provide professional mold mitigation services resulting from animal damage. From prevention to repair, Northern Pest is your full-service solution.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Northern Pest

New Lyme Disease Discovery Reinforces the Need for Year-Round Tick Prevention

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Recent scientific research has identified an unexpected weakness in Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. The study revealed that the organism relies on the mineral manganese to defend itself against the body’s immune response. However, this dependence is also a liability: when manganese levels are either too low or too high, the bacterium’s protective mechanisms break down, making it easier to destroy.

This finding opens the door to potential new treatment strategies that disrupt how B. burgdorferi regulates manganese. With Lyme disease cases continuing to increase and existing treatments often proving complex, identifying this vulnerability represents a promising step toward more effective therapies.

Ticks Remain Active in Colorado—Even in Colder Months

Unlike many pests that disappear as temperatures drop, ticks remain active throughout fall, winter, and spring in Colorado. They continue to pose health risks because they transmit serious diseases and feed on a variety of hosts, including dogs, cats, deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and mice. Ticks do not fly or jump; instead, they wait on vegetation and attach to passing animals or people using sensory cues.

The most common tick species found in Colorado include:

  • Winter ticks: Winter ticks mainly infest large mammals such as elk, moose, and deer, and occasionally horses. They spend most of their life cycle on a single host, which can lead to heavy infestations causing hair loss, skin irritation, anemia, and weakened animals. While they rarely transmit disease to humans, they can bite people incidentally. Winter ticks are most active from late fall through early spring and are commonly found in Colorado’s foothills and mountain areas where wildlife is abundant.
  • Rocky Mountain wood ticks: Rocky Mountain wood ticks are among the most medically significant ticks in Colorado and are commonly found in shrublands, grasslands, and wooded areas at higher elevations. They can transmit serious diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever, and tularemia. Adults are most active in spring and early summer and readily attach to humans, dogs, and livestock, making prevention and prompt removal especially important.
  • American dog tick: American dog ticks are widespread in Colorado and commonly found in grassy areas, along trails, and near homes. They frequently bite dogs and humans and can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia. Most active from late spring through summer, they do not spread Lyme disease but still pose significant health risks, especially to pets without proper tick prevention.

Ways to Reduce Tick Exposure

Routine inspections by a licensed pest control professional can help identify tick-prone areas on your property and allow for targeted treatments to reduce activity. For best results, tick and mosquito control should begin early in the summer and continue as needed throughout the season.

Additional prevention measures include:

  • Avoid contact with tall grass and dense vegetation, particularly in wooded areas
  • Wear light-colored clothing and tuck pants into socks to make ticks easier to spot
  • Conduct thorough tick checks on people and pets after outdoor activity
  • Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention products year-round and ask about canine vaccinations
  • Reduce rodent populations around the home, as rodents often carry ticks
  • Consider natural predators such as guinea fowl, which feed on ticks

For safe tick removal, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward steadily until it releases.

Because every property is different, Front Range Pest can help identify the most effective tick management approach for your home. Contact us today to learn how to better protect your family and pets year-round.

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Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Front Range Pest

Buying Over Building: Why Developers Are Shifting to Acquisitions

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The multifamily landscape is undergoing a fundamental shift. Developers known for large-scale, ground-up construction are putting their shovels aside and redirecting capital toward acquiring existing apartment communities. What began as a response to rising development challenges is rapidly becoming a long-term investment strategy—and it’s reshaping how multifamily growth will look over the next decade.

Why Developers Are Moving from Building to Buying

Across the mid-Atlantic and nationwide, developers are finding that acquiring an existing property is—plain and simple—more economical than starting from scratch.

Ground-up multifamily construction now comes with cap rates hovering around 6.5%, while acquisition opportunities often sit between 5.75% and 6.25%. The spread may seem small, but in a high-cost, high-rate environment, that difference can dramatically shift returns.

This financial reality is pushing even development-focused firms to redirect resources into acquisition pipelines. The reasoning is straightforward: buying existing assets often delivers stronger returns than building new ones in today’s market.

Rising Development Barriers Are Fueling the Shift

Several forces have converged to make new development increasingly difficult:

  • Tariffs and material inflation
  • Labor shortages and rising construction wages
  • Higher insurance costs
  • Elevated interest rates
  • Longer approval and permitting timelines

Developers describe the environment as “death by a thousand cuts”—a series of small but compounding pressures that erode project feasibility. As a result, many firms are moving into acquisition mode to maintain deal flow and investor returns.

Developers at the Forefront

Several major developers have already restructured their pipelines. Bozzuto Group, for example, partnered with Invesco on a $330M fund targeting up to $1B in acquisitions, focusing on post-2000 apartment communities. Others, like Shoreham Capital, Jefferson Apartment Group, and Menkiti Group are dramatically expanding their acquisition volume—often with a value-add strategy to enhance returns.

A Looming Supply Shortage Is Driving the Trend

According to Avison Young, multifamily starts are down 47.4% year-over-year. After record production in 2022, developers are now facing dramatically fewer viable ground-up opportunities.

Fewer new projects today will likely lead to a shortage of apartments in the future. Experts say investors who buy properties in 2025–2026 will be in a strong position when demand rises and supply tightens.

Why Buying Existing Properties Makes Strategic Sense

1. Faster Scaling: Acquisitions allow developers to grow portfolios immediately, without the multi-year timeline of ground-up builds.

2. Lower Risk: Existing properties offer clearer performance data, stabilized rents, and fewer unknowns—reducing development and financial risk.

3. Value-Add Opportunities:Light renovations, operational improvements, and amenity upgrades can significantly increase NOI and property value.

4. Better Positioning for Tight Market Cycles:With new supply dwindling, owners of well-located existing assets will benefit from increased renter demand and pricing power.

The New Blueprint for Multifamily Growth

While development isn’t disappearing, acquisitions are becoming the dominant strategy for many firms. Even companies rooted in building expertise acknowledge the benefits of diversification, stability, and speed that acquisitions provide.

Despite the required adjustments, most experts agree that buying multifamily properties now positions investors and developers for strong returns in the years ahead.

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EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new-home purchases, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today! 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Creative Programs and Systems

Improving Cognitive Training Apps for Older Adults: What’s Working & What Must Come Next

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Cognitive training apps continue to gain traction among older adults seeking to maintain or improve cognitive function. While many available tools show promise, recent evaluations highlight an important reality: current apps designed for older adults with mild cognitive impairment offer moderate overall quality and significant variability in effectiveness, usability, and evidence-based support. Understanding where these apps succeed, and where they need to evolve is essential for shaping the next generation of digital cognitive health tools.

Current State of Cognitive Training Apps

Most apps today offer structured exercises that target memory, attention, processing speed, and problem-solving. Though users appreciate the accessibility and convenience of daily digital training, comprehensive reviews reveal notable inconsistencies:

  • Moderate app quality across the market
  • Wide variability in usability, design, and scientific accuracy
  • Stronger performance in basic exercise delivery
  • Weak performance in engagement, education, and evidence-based content

These findings suggest that while the foundation is in place, much more can be done to make cognitive training tools more effective, user-friendly, and clinically meaningful.

Key Areas That Need Improvement

1. Stronger Engagement Features

Older adults, especially those with cognitive impairment, need interaction, motivation, and a sense of connection to stay engaged. Effective cognitive training depends on consistent use, yet many apps fall short because they lack:

  • Personalization of difficulty levels
  • Adaptive pacing
  • Interactive prompts, feedback, and rewards
  • Social or community-based engagement options

2. Personalized Cognitive Support

Most apps still use one-size-fits-all training. Personalization increases relevance and boosts long-term use. Older adults benefit from training tailored to their individual abilities and limitations. To better support cognitive health:

  • Exercises should adapt to the user’s performance trends
  • Recommendations should reflect the user’s goals, limitations, and strengths
  • The interface should accommodate sensory and motor needs common in older adults

3. Better Integration of Health Care Expertise

Few apps are guided by clinicians, neuroscientists, or geriatric specialists. Aligning development with evidence-based standards is essential to ensure training is safe, appropriate, and scientifically sound. To meet these guidelines, future apps should:

  • Incorporate validated cognitive assessment tools
  • Provide clear, research-based information
  • Enable optional collaboration with caregivers or clinicians
  • Offer data outputs that support care planning and monitoring

Future Development for Next-Generation Cognitive Training Apps

By moving beyond simple “brain games,” developers should build tools that better support cognitive health in aging adults. To progress ahead of today’s moderate-quality apps, future solutions should consider including:

  • Holistic wellness recommendations, incorporating coaching tips and community features
  • AI-driven personalization with real-time difficulty adjustments
  • Integration with wearable devices to track sleep, activity, and wellness for a more complete view of cognitive health
  • Cognitive wellness plans that blend digital exercises with lifestyle guidance such as nutrition, movement, and social engagement
  • Voice-assisted navigation to improve accessibility
  • Family or caregiver dashboards for shared monitoring
  • Regular clinical advisory board involvement to keep content current and evidence-based

Moving Toward a More Supportive Digital Future

Creative Programs and Systems monitors emerging technology to understand how digital tools can better support the population. Cognitive training apps show real potential for adults experiencing memory challenges, but progress is needed to strengthen engagement, deepen personalization, and align development with evidence-based guidance. With thoughtful innovation, these tools can evolve from basic exercises into comprehensive systems that help older adults maintain cognitive health throughout life. CPS remains committed to promoting more effective, accessible, and clinically grounded digital solutions for the well-being of all.

For more information, refer to JMIR Publications.

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Creative Programs and Systems

Bus Duct Solutions: Air-Insulated and Sandwich-Insulated Options

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

J&P Electrical supplies a wide range of new, used, and refurbished electrical products, including comprehensive bus duct systems designed for industrial, commercial, and large-scale infrastructure projects. Two of the most common insulation types, air-insulated and sandwich-insulated, offer distinct advantages depending on budget, space, and performance requirements.

Air-Insulated Bus Duct


Air-insulated bus duct uses air as the insulating medium between conductors. It remains a cost-effective choice for facilities where budget is a primary factor and ample physical space is available. Because this style requires more clearance and a larger installation footprint, it’s typically selected for applications with minimal space constraints.

Sandwich-Insulated Bus Duct


Sandwich-insulated bus duct relies on solid insulating materials such as epoxy or polyester to isolate the conductors. This design delivers stronger protection against environmental exposure and reduces the likelihood of electrical faults. Its compact, durable construction makes it ideal for high-rise buildings, industrial environments, and commercial complexes—anywhere space optimization and enhanced safety are essential.

How to Choose the Best Bus Duct for Your Project


Project-specific requirements ultimately determine the best choice:


• When space is limited, sandwich-insulated systems are often the preferred solution.
• When cost sensitivity is a primary factor, and there is room for larger equipment, air-insulated designs may be more practical.

Advances in insulation technologies continue to shape the bus duct market. Improved materials with enhanced thermal and electrical properties drive demand for higher-performance systems, particularly in projects that prioritize reliability, safety, and long-term efficiency.

J&P Electrical supports these needs by providing a full inventory of bus duct products and components—new, used, and expertly refurbished—ensuring customers receive dependable solutions tailored to their application.

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J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance. 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

J & P Electrical Company

Saltwater vs. Chlorine Pools

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Saltwater pools have grown in popularity, but many homeowners still wonder how they compare to traditional chlorine pools. Understanding how each system works, along with the maintenance needs, equipment costs, and long-term benefits, can help you decide which option best fits your lifestyle and budget.

How Saltwater Pools Work
Saltwater pools use a generator that converts salt into chlorine through electrolysis. This system keeps chlorine levels more consistent, resulting in gentler water and reduced need for regular chemical additions. While maintenance is lower overall, the generator itself needs routine care to prevent buildup and ensure proper performance.

How Chlorine Pools Work
Chlorine pools rely on tablets, liquid chlorine, or granules added manually to sanitize the water. Frequent testing is required to keep chlorine levels balanced and to prevent issues like algae or chloramine buildup, which causes strong odors and irritation.

Maintenance Comparison
Saltwater pools require monitoring of salinity levels, brushing and vacuuming, and regular inspection of filters and skimmer baskets. Chlorine levels should also be checked to ensure the generator is functioning properly. Traditional chlorine pools demand more manual upkeep, including frequent chemical additions, balancing pH levels, and periodic shock treatments.

Health and Comfort Benefits
Saltwater pools are known for being gentler on skin, eyes, and hair. The water feels smoother and causes less irritation than traditionally chlorinated water. Because chlorine is continually generated, saltwater systems produce fewer harsh chloramines, resulting in a milder smell and a more enjoyable swimming experience.

Equipment Needs
Saltwater systems require a salt chlorinator, along with standard pool equipment such as pumps, filters, and heaters. All equipment should be maintained regularly to prevent debris buildup, ensure proper water circulation, and protect components from potential corrosion.

Cost Differences
Saltwater systems come with higher upfront costs due to the generator, but long-term chemical expenses are typically lower. Chlorine pools cost less to install but require continuous chemical purchases and more hands-on maintenance. Both pool types can add value to your home, though costs vary based on pool size, materials, and equipment.

Benefits of Saltwater Pools
• Softer, more comfortable water
• Less irritation to eyes and skin
• Lower long-term chemical costs
• Reduced chemical odor
• Automated chlorine production for easier upkeep

Potential Drawbacks
• Higher initial installation cost
• Salt-related corrosion on equipment or surrounding surfaces
• Occasional salt buildup that requires cleaning

Is a Saltwater Pool the Better Choice?
Choosing between a saltwater and chlorine pool depends on your budget, maintenance preferences, and long-term goals. Saltwater pools offer a gentler swimming experience and reduced ongoing maintenance, while chlorine pools remain a cost-effective, traditional option. With the right care, either system can provide years of enjoyable swimming.

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

Kitchen Upgrades and Design Trends That Add Value to Your Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

If you’re updating your kitchen with resale in mind, you’re already focused on the right room. In Southeast Michigan, realtors consistently point to kitchens as a major driver of buyer interest. The key is combining smart, value-boosting upgrades with today’s most in-demand design choices.

What Buyers Want Right Now

Most homeowners (81%) change their kitchen style during a renovation, and the trend is shifting back toward warmer, more classic looks. Traditional kitchens are making a strong comeback, rising to about 14% of remodels, while transitional remains the top choice at 25%. Modern and contemporary styles are holding steady, and farmhouse style continues to decline.

Altogether, kitchens are getting bigger and bolder. About 35% of homeowners are expanding their kitchen footprint, often borrowing space from dining rooms or living rooms, while others build additions to create the open, multifunctional kitchens people love. Backsplashes are also becoming major design statements, with full-height tile now the most common choice and ceiling-high designs growing in popularity.

Upgrades Realtors Say Add the Most Value

These are the improvements that typically deliver the strongest return and align with current buyer expectations:

  1. New flooring: Old, mismatched, or damaged floors drag down value fast. Seamless flooring, especially hardwood or quality wood-look options, immediately improves first impressions.
  2. Fresh, neutral paint: A professional repaint in warm whites, soft grays, or creams brightens the space and makes it feel move-in ready.
  3. Updated cabinets (paint, reface, or replace): Cabinets set the tone for the whole kitchen. If the boxes are solid, repainting or refacing delivers high-end impact for less. Soft-close hinges and drawers add a premium feel.
  4. Modern cabinet hardware: One of the simplest upgrades with the biggest visual payoff. New pulls and knobs can refresh the entire kitchen quickly.
  5. Matching appliances: A coordinated appliance package makes kitchens photograph better and feel more finished. Stainless steel is still the buyer favorite, and matching finishes matter.
  6. A modern sink faucet: A clean-lined, pull-down, or touchless faucet is a low-cost upgrade that signals an “updated kitchen” to buyers.
  7. Lighting that fits the style: Replacing dated fluorescent or builder-grade fixtures is usually worth it. Stick to timeless, high-quality fixtures over overly custom designs.
  8. A kitchen island (when layout allows): Islands are still high on buyer wish lists for prep space, storage, and gathering. If space is tight, a movable island can add function without hurting flow.
  9. Quality countertops: If you have laminate or low-end surfaces, upgrading is a strong value move. Durable stone or quartz keeps your kitchen aligned with today’s expectations.
  10. A clean, full-coverage backsplash: Since backsplashes are trending larger and more dramatic, upgrading a dated or missing backsplash is a smart choice. Neutral ceramic or porcelain tile keeps it buyer-friendly while looking current.

Value-Focused Budget

Kitchen spending varies widely. High-end remodels can go far above average, especially in larger kitchens, but you don’t need a luxury budget to get a meaningful return. The best strategy is choosing improvements that buyers notice first: flooring, cabinets, lighting, and surfaces.

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JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Jason Foldenauer Construction

Why RAM and Storage Costs Are Skyrocketing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence is driving an unprecedented surge in global demand for computer memory, causing steep price hikes for RAM, SSDs, and other storage components. Major AI developers—including OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon—are buying massive quantities of high-end memory for their data centers, often outbidding consumer manufacturers. As a result, the cost of everyday electronics is climbing across the board.

Over just a few weeks, DDR5 RAM prices have doubled in some cases, with premium kits jumping more than 100%. Retailers are already scrambling to keep up with the volatility. Some stores have even removed fixed price tags, switching to spot pricing because memory costs change so rapidly.

This shortage affects more than PC upgrades. Laptops, TVs, gaming consoles, and handheld devices all rely on the same memory manufacturers—primarily Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron, which control roughly 90% of the market. As existing inventory runs out, consumers can expect higher prices for new devices and fewer deals on components. Even GPUs may rise in cost again as video memory becomes more expensive.

Console makers are feeling the pressure, too. Microsoft has already raised Xbox prices twice in 2025, with more increases possible. Sony reportedly stockpiled RAM early, but that buffer won’t last forever. The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 may also face higher storage costs due to rising microSD prices.

Data Centers Are Outbidding Consumer Tech

Analysts predict memory and flash storage prices will continue climbing into 2026 unless production expands or AI companies reduce consumption. For now, the demand from AI data centers is overpowering supply, and consumers are left footing the bill as nearly every gadget becomes more expensive to make—and to buy.

Analysts predict that memory and flash storage prices will continue climbing into 2026 unless production increases or AI companies curb consumption. Reports from Reuters and TrendForce indicate that major NAND manufacturers are “taking turns raising prices,” creating a cascading effect throughout the market. Although the memory sector is expected to grow rapidly, that growth won’t be enough to ease demand. Additionally, the Korean newspaper Chosun Biz reports that Samsung and SK Hynix reduced flash supply in late 2025, further tightening the market. Samsung is also considering additional price hikes of 20% to 30%, signaling more volatility ahead.

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Creative Programs and Systems

Termite Awareness in Colorado: Detect Early, Protect Smart

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Termites are a year-round threat across Colorado, and early detection is the key to preventing costly damage. If you’ve spotted wood deterioration, mud tubes, or walls that sound hollow when tapped, you may be seeing the first signs of an active infestation. Known as “silent destroyers,” termites can quietly compromise wood, flooring, and even drywall. In 2025, termite-related property damage in the U.S. is expected to surpass $7 billion, underscoring the importance of proactive protection.

Where Termites Hide in Colorado Homes

Colorado’s seasonal shifts create ideal conditions for hidden termite activity. Infestations often begin in the warmer months but may intensify as colonies seek heat inside homes during fall and winter. Because termites prefer dark, sheltered, and damp areas, they often remain undetected until significant damage is already done.

Common hiding spots include:

  • Attics, basements, and crawl spaces
  • Cracks in walls and gaps around foundations
  • Cardboard boxes, storage bags, and paper clutter
  • Behind electrical outlets or wiring
  • Soft, sagging, or hollow-sounding wood
  • Beneath sinks and around plumbing
  • Inside cupboards, shelving, or side-wall voids

Annual professional inspections help catch these issues early—well before damage becomes severe.

The Financial and Structural Risk of Termites

Termites cause billions of dollars in property damage each year, and most homeowners don’t realize the extent of the threat until it’s too late. These insects feed on wood and other cellulose-based materials, gradually weakening essential structural components such as support beams, joists, flooring, and wall framing. Because the damage occurs out of sight, infestations often go unnoticed for months—or even years—before repairs become unavoidable.

Beyond structural harm, termite activity carries significant financial consequences. Each year, more than 600,000 U.S. homes experience termite damage, and nationwide repair costs are estimated to exceed $7 billion. Since most insurance policies classify termite destruction as preventable, the cost of treatment and reconstruction typically falls entirely on the homeowner. Repairs can range from minor carpentry work to major structural restoration that disrupts daily life and strains budgets.

The impact is even broader for property owners, investors, and real estate professionals. Termite issues can lower a home’s market value, complicate inspections, delay closings, and lead to disputes over disclosure responsibilities. Because unresolved termite damage raises red flags for buyers and lenders, early detection and preventative care are essential for protecting both the structure and its long-term financial value.

Proactive Steps to Protect Your Property

Simple maintenance habits can significantly reduce your risk of infestation:

  • Store firewood, mulch, and lumber away from your home’s foundation.
  • Improve drainage and fix moisture issues near the home.
  • Inspect attics, crawl spaces, and storage areas for damage or early-season swarmers

Modern, Eco-Conscious Termite Solutions

While traditional treatments—chemical barriers, soil termiticides, and bait systems—still play a role, environmental regulations and soil considerations in Colorado can limit their effectiveness. Newer biodegradable and non-toxic soil treatments are offering homeowners safer, smarter choices.

These innovative products create pheromone-mimicking trails that help direct termites toward bait stations rather than allowing them to spread through your property. This boosts early detection, speeds colony elimination, and protects pets, family members, and beneficial insects. The result is a sustainable, long-term termite prevention strategy aligned with modern environmental standards.

Why Professional Termite Control Is Essential

Termite elimination is never a DIY job. Colonies often live deep within structural voids—far beyond the reach of store-bought sprays. While visible termites may be easy to kill, the colony behind your walls can continue feeding and growing.

A professional inspection from Front Range Pest provides accurate detection, targeted treatment, and long-term monitoring. Our team uses advanced tools and environmentally responsible solutions to eliminate colonies at the source and prevent future activity.

If you suspect termite presence in your home, don’t wait. Schedule a ground-to-roof termite inspection with Front Range Pest and protect your property with Colorado’s most trusted pest-management experts.

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Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Front Range Pest