Author: Creative Programs and Systems - page 292

Making The Most Of Your Bathroom Renovations

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When it comes to redoing your home one of the best rooms to renovate is the bathroom.  Before you jump into the latest in trendy bathroom tiles and fancy bathtubs there are some basics to cover that will allow your renovation to be the vision you imagined.  Any home modification can take on a life of its own however if you follow the checklist below you will stay on track and things will run smoothly.

The first thing to consider is coming up with a realistic budget.  Get quotes from different contractors and go to different home improvement stores to check out prices on the pieces that you are leaning towards.  If you want marble but can only afford lament then you might consider waiting on the remodel or allotting your funds differently.  You will want to take diligence when looking at the prices on tile, fixtures, countertops, mirrors, tubs and bathtubs.  These items can all add up really quickly so you want to keep a close eye on your budget.

The bathroom is a small room but don’t think that this means that the renovation will only take a few days.  Renovations can run into issues along the way, especially bathrooms.  Bathrooms are an area that things can pop up such as the wrong backer board was used originally and created a mold issue.  The floor is an area of concern as well when it comes to a bathroom. You will want to make sure the base is sturdy and free of imperfections.  Hidden problems will occur so make sure to budget for the extras.

When it comes to the bath area, the design and functionality is the most important factor for us as homeowners.   The bathroom should flow in design and function.  Function comes in the layout of the bathroom.  This is something that should be gone over with the contractor and the room designer.  They should know how you will use the space so that it provides function and flow for you and your family.  When it comes to choosing colors for paint, tile, the vanity and such this is mostly personal preference.   Neutral works best if you are planning to put the house up for sale as it is most pleasing to everyone.

I am all for it when it comes to most do-it-yourself projects however when it comes to bathroom renovations it is best to hire a contractor.  The job comes with complexities such as electrical, plumbing and tile work.  All of these are not easy tasks to master and the advantages of hiring a bathroom contractor can alleviate a lot of headaches.

Speaking of electrical, consider adding lighting to the bathroom space. If this was not something that you originally thought of consider it now.  Bathroom lighting is so important and can really add a lot of interest to a small space.   Without proper lighting especially in homes of aging people the bathroom can be dangerous.  Add natural lighting first if there isn’t any and from there add bright lighting, recessed lighting adds to the brightness without requiring anything but ceiling space.  If you have a small bathroom recessed lighting can help you open up the space.

One more thing to think about when remodeling the bathroom is your needs as you age.  If you are redoing a bathroom space it is the perfect time to add in some basic age in place modifications that will help you in the future as you age.  Basics can include levered faucets and pull knobs along with in place grab bars in the shower area.  A taller toilet can be installed to ease getting up and can easily go unnoticed unlike the over the toilet chairs that are often used.  Aging is something that will happen to all of us, preparing for it is not a bad thing and during the renovation process is the perfect time for this.

 

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Choose a Freight Broker To Help Your Small Business With Logistics

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When it comes to business, especially those based on services it is arguable that the most important piece of the puzzle is customer service.  This is especially true when it comes to small business owners choosing a freight broker.  Many of you are about to disagree and point out that cost is the most important factors however I disagree.  I do believe that as the relationship with the broker is continued cost savings in inevitable.  To find a freight broker, especially one that specializes in less than truckload shipping you will find these tips useful.

Look for a provider to assist you with your business logistic needs that is affiliated in the industry.  There are many associations to choose from as a part of the freight brokerage industry. It is important that before you do business you check with their affiliates to check for any unfavorable information regarding the company.  It is important that as a logistics provider that the company is always accountable to the highest, best practice standards for the industry.

Find a provider that has been in business for a bit of time.  A broker that has been in business for four to five years will have connections that a new broker just will not have in the industry yet.  Connections will lead to better prices for all parties involved, which will affect your bottom end.  Carriers will provide shippers with better rates based on the relationship they hold with them.  This is natural in many business dealings.

Look for a freight provider that is insured, licensed and bonded.    Insurance adds a second layer of protection if something does happen to your shipment and the actual carrier and their insurance company refuse to pay for the damages. Look for a carrier with both error & omissions insurance as well as contingent cargo& liability insurance.  A broker is legally not able to operate without a federal property broker license which is offered through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration as well as bonded for at least ten thousand dollars.  This is important item to look for.

A good freight broker will deal with several different shippers/carriers.  They will keep track of all of the minuet details about each of the carriers so that you don’t have to worry about any of it.  It is their job to make sure your products and packages are where they need to be when they need to be on reliable carriers.  Look into your broker’s relationship with carriers and how they manage the carriers they use.

Whomever you choose to help you in the logistic maze needs to be strong in day to day happenings.  If lanes are changing or a more efficient one is developed that could benefit you it is their job to have this information. A broker that sits and waits for these changes to be announced are behind.  You need to find a broker that has the relationships that will allow them to know before it happens.

Being proactive in you supply chain needs is the only way a broker will be sure that he is getting his clients the biggest bang for their buck.  This is a full time job for larger companies.  Small businesses don’t have the financial luxury to employ a logistics manager so the next best thing is to find a broker on the fast track of shipping.

Detroit LTL

Don’t Be Left Out In The Dark When It Comes To Computer Repair

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Bringing in the year 2014 has left me thinking about a lot of things.  Technology being one major topic that I think about a lot especially with two kids and the iPhone and iPod craze that exists.  Going one day without technology is a difficult task in our family.  I know this will make many people shake their heads in disbelief.  There are some people that would be fine to go back to an age where telephones were connected to the wall with a cord and an encyclopedia was still the main research source.

I personally cannot imagine a day without access to my computer world.  I rely on the computer to communicate effectively in my personal life as well as my work life.  Communication is simplified with the use of a computer. Mundane tasks are made easier and life just runs smoother using a computer.  This is why when I went to turn my computer on and it hesitated, hissed and went black I was devastated.  I knew I needed to get the computer fixed as soon as possible.  This began the quest in to finding a technician to fix my computer without too much hassle.

My first step to finding someone reliable to fix my computer was to call upon my tech savvy friends.  I wanted to see who they would trust to fix their laptop or towers.  All of them commented not to take it to a large chain for repair as the computer would not get the attention it needed.  I was told that many times it is a process that leaves you without a computer for weeks while they ship it about fixing it and yet it comes back to you and is never the same.

The problem is that the person you speak with is not the person fixing your computer.  This was an issue.  If I was leaving my baby overnight I wanted to make sure she was in good hands and attended to. That left me in search of a local computer store to repair my computer.  It was important that I was able to speak with the technician working on machine to explain how I needed the computer to function in the end.  I feel it best to lay the expectation out first, if the expectation is not possible with this machine then they would be able to tell me it was not worth the cost to repair it and move on.  This was important as sinking money into a machine was not something I was going to be able to do a lot of.

I found a local computer service company searching Google on my phone.  I was able to go into the office with my computer and speak the tech about the issues.  It was great because right off the bat the problem sounded familiar to him.  For a small diagnostic fee I left my machine to be repaired.  That same day, later in the evening, I received a call that the glitch could be fixed for about a half hour of labor costs which was covered by my diagnostic fee and I just needed to give the approval.  My pc was repaired and home with me the next day.

When it comes to repairing and maintaining my computer in the future I know who to trust.  I would recommend that everyone take a few minutes to scope out a local computer service store, even before you have an issue with your machine. I know being without my computer is like being without my right arm. Establishing a relationship with local computer support can save you when it comes to time, money and sanity.

Creative Programs and Systems

Choosing The Perfect Business Insurance Package For Your Company

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Insurance for your business is necessary to protect you from the risks involved on owning your own company. When it comes to insurance for your business there is a broad spectrum of policies to choose from including workers compensation policies, general business liability, property insurance, equipment insurance as well as auto insurance for business vehicles. This allows you to manage the risks within your business and to protect the time and money that you have put into growing your company. When purchasing business insurance you will find yourself protecting the risks within your business that are not within your control.

When considering insurance for your business it is pertinent to realize the importance of having an agent that knows exactly what your business needs are. Many agents sell insurance for business needs however all businesses require a custom insurance plan tailored to the specific needs of your business. When choosing an agent look into a local insurance agency that has that has insured companies within the same scope as yours. Using a local agent is also a good plan as they are close enough to evaluate your business in person.

Understanding the basics is important when it comes to insurance of all varieties including for your business. Purchasing the right policy will protect assets in case of loss due to theft or natural causes. Weather is often a contributing factor when it comes to unforeseen losses to one’s business assets including inventory as well as insurance covering the building.

A mistake new business owners often make is overlooking insurance and not putting the funds in the budget for the correct coverage. Skimping on insurance for your business will only leave you inadequate coverage. When your business doesn’t start out with the correct coverage for your needs it allows the need to go unmet. This is problematic for when disaster of any kind strikes you find out too late that being under-insured leaves you paying for the damages out of your own pockets.

The first area to concern yourself with when it comes to business insurance is to make sure that your coverage covers rebuilding your business property and to replace your inventory as well as business possessions. This includes furniture, store fixtures, equipment, machinery, inventory, personal property used in the business, labor, building improvements that have been made and any contractual obligations you may have within the business. Keeping a list of items included in this category on hand and up to date and checking in with your agent is the best way to ensure that your coverage needs are kept up to date.

Another thing to consider is coverage to make sure your business thrives even if something happens and you need to shut down for a bit of time. A combination of business income coverage, extra income coverage and contingent business interruption insurance is needed to cover the bases if a disaster occurs. Business insurance covers the unexpected. Make sure your business survives the unexpected by purchasing the right amount of coverage as well as the correct type of insurance for your business needs.

Cobb Hall

Things to Consider When Hiring An Exterminator

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When you think of the top ten worst jobs exterminator has to be somewhere in the list.  Who doesn’t scream like a baby when they see a spider or two and forget it one mouse and I am out forever.  Never to return to the room that once was infested, because yes in my mind one would be an infestation, with mice.  Exterminators have a tough, dirty job that sometimes is not without failure.  It is true that some infestations take continual treatment and a one-time procedure is not going to fix the homes issue.

There are a few things you should be aware of before you hire an exterminator and yep one of them is that sometimes for your infestation to stay at bay they will have to visit more than once.

First things first, the cleanest homes and kitchens are still not immune to some insects and rodents.  As unsettling as this is it is true.  Pests are attracted to clean homes.  They like food, whether it is in a sink, a trash can or a closed cupboard.  They can find it anywhere.  Pests also love moisture.  They foster in moisture which also sustains them as a viable life form within your home.  To avoid issues from food and moisture around the home make sure that you take your trash out regularly.  Don’t allow food to stay on plates whether they are sitting in the dishwasher or the sink.  Dry the dishes with the heat of the dishwasher which prevents unwanted moisture from dishes put away moist.  On the outside make sure that water is never left to puddle up and become a habitat for critters.

If bugs are attracted to your home they will find a way to make it theirs.  Certain bugs, such as bedbugs don’t care about your homes environment all they care about is you.  You are their source of food, well your blood is.  They are incredibly difficult to get rid of and can hitch a ride home with you on basically any surface.  Leave your luggage outside after traveling.  Wash everything and don’t assume that because you can’t see them they aren’t there.  This is not the case at all.  They are tiny and hiding is there main goal during the daytime.

Don’t assume because I was able to get rid of your pest problem it won’t ever come back again. If you bring a roach home, you will get roach’s again.  If you don’t keep the lid on your trash the raccoon I got rid of will have a brother that comes to visit.  Your exterminator can only do so much.  They can get rid of an issue and to treatment to prevent another infestation but you need to be vigilant and follow their advice as well to help yourself.

Head lice are not something an exterminator can help you get rid of. With any bug that hosts on hair or skin you are looking at needing to be vigilant in medically removing it yourself as well as within your home.  An exterminator is not who needs to be called in to handle a case of body or head lice.

Be sure to hire a pest removal company that uses an Integrated Pest Management process.  This ensures that you are getting the safest pest removal using the least amount of product that achieves the most effective results.

Best Pest Removal LLC

Choosing A Quality Brand Name Knife

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

A quality knife is a must for almost everyone.  Whether you are a crafter, hunter, fisherman, camper, hiker, outdoorsman or just plain old handy all around a knife is a tool that you will not be able to function without. A knife is such a valuable tool that any new young man or women in our family acquires one at the same time that they receive their drivers license.  Whether for cutting a box, opening a can, cutting your way out of a tangle or as a security blanket walking to your car in a dark parking lot a knife is an essential tool.

The old adage that you get what you pay for is true when it comes to the purchase of a knife.  Don’t waste money on a cheap gas station pocket knife.  You will literally be throwing money away.  Invest in a decent knife as a gift for someone or for yourself, it will pay you back tenfold in years served.  A quality knife will last long enough to be a family heirloom so look at the purchase as such.  A terrific knife to start with is a folding knife with a locking blade.  There are many companies supplying knives that fit this description narrowing the selection down is the hard part.  Below I will share a few personal favorites.

One brand that stands the test of time is W.R. Case & Son Cutlery.  Started in 1889, each knife and blade that is made is different form the next.  Case blades are stamped from steel and hardened using their special heat method.  After this is completed the handles are carved from a multitude of materials.  Case handles come from hardwoods, mother-of-pearl, exotic animal bone as well as unique stones.  All the parts used in making a Case knife are superior metals such as silver, nickel and brass.  If you purchase a Case knife you are not only buying a quality tool you are also purchasing a collectable heirloom that will be passed on from one member of your family to another for years.

Another quality knife company that is known for their quality, heirloom pieces is Fallkniven knives.  A Swedish, family business that began around 1980 has grown into one of the most popular brands for fishing and hunting enthusiasts all over the world.  With a knife designed and manufactured by Fallkniven you are guaranteed a knife that is second to none.  The knives have it all; good looks unbeatable craftsmanship and unrivaled performance.  You can choose from many styles of knives including folding, fixed blade, military, collectors and chef knives.

These are just two of the many knife brands I would suggest to purchase as a knife that will ultimately become a family heirloom.  It is priceless to see how a child lights up when they are given great grandpa’s pocket knife from when he was a young man.  With either of the brands listed above and plenty of other you are purchasing an essential tool that will carry a multitude of stories with it throughout the years.

Knife Mule

The Blade Is Important When Choosing A Quality Knife

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

In hunting you will find there are two distinct types of knives to choose from, the fixed blade knife and the folding or lock blade knife.  As with most products there are distinct benefits and drawbacks when deciding between the two.  When choosing between the two you will want to consider your unique and specific hunting approach as well as your preference for carrying your knife.  If you prefer to carry a knife in your pocket you will want to go with a folding or locking blade knife but if you want to wear the knife on your belt or in a boot sheath you will be looking at a fixed blade knife.

Folding or locking blade knives often come with a unique feature that allows them to be opened using only one hand.  Often times the knife is equipped with a small lever that you place your thumb in that assists in opening the blade.  Another nice feature about folding blades is the locking mechanism that prevents accidental blade closings.  If a blade closes accidentally it is likely to cause injury.  To close a knife with a locking component you must press the lever down and apply pressure to fold the knife back into the handle.  A lock blade knife is convenient to be carried within a pocket or worn easily on a belt.  They are usually smaller in size then fixed blade knives which make them a terrific option for an everyday knife or for a knife used in fishing, hunting or outdoor adventures.

If you are into big game hunting or are adventurous in survival outings a fixed blade knife might be a better option for you.  A fixed blade knife is often larger and sturdier and is better suited to the stress that will be put on it in survival and big game hunting expeditions.   They are considered a stronger knife as they do not rely on a hinge to fold the knife.  The blade is made from one solid piece of metal and is part of the actual handle using a full tang.  In my opinion this is the highest quality fixed blade knife you can purchase.  The knife will be carried in a sheath that is worn around a belt, within a boot or around your leg.  The sheath that you will choose to carry your knife in with depends on the game you are hunting, the clothing you are wearing and personal comfort.  When venturing into deep woods camping or large game hunting looks into a good quality full tang fixed blade knife.

Several different types of blades are available on folding blades and fixed blade options.  The clip point and drop point blades are the most popular for hunters.  A clip point blade is best for smaller areas where as the drop point blade is best for skinning and larger animals.

Another blade option that is popular is the gut hook blade.  This style blade has a hooked end that is used to open the animals mid section without clipping into the entrails.  If choosing a gut hook blade look for one that has a wide opening to accept the thickness of the animals hide.  It is important to remember that the animals will have their winter coats, hair and hide so you will need a hook blade that is substantial to get through the animal.

In choosing a knife there are many brands to consider.  Some of the top brands are Boker Tree, Browning, Case and Zero Tolerance.  Take your time, do some research and get a feel for the knife you want.  Look around at stores but when it comes to the big purchase, check online as the deals are often far greater than what you can find in store.

Knife Mule

The More You Know The Better Off You Are In Logistics

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

When it comes to the shipping component to any business it is always a little bit confusing.  This is especially true when you ship items that are bigger than a standard parcel post but too small to require an entire truckload.  This is where less than truckload carriers come into the picture.  LTL carriers are discount freight shippers that ship parcels starting at around one hundred and fifty pounds per single pallet up to six thousand pounds or six pallets.  When shipping any more or less than specified it is less expensive to pay for parcel post or truckload shipping.

Frequently, less than truckload freight carriers combine shipments from several different business’s which together are equivalent to a truck load.  This allows them to offer discounts for freight while maintaining a profit.  Most Less than truckload freight is transported via a system know as a hub-and-spoke system which allows shipments to be transferred between trucks and freight mid-points until the shipment arrives at its final destination.

Below is a guide that helps to introduce you to less than truckload carrier’s rate classes.

Base rates are determined by each individual LTL freight carrier.  The base rate is the rate is the cost at which shipping starts.  The rate will go up from there dependent upon the weight, the miles travelled and where the package is shipped from and to.  Base LTL rates are often quoted based on one hundred pounds.  Base rates are determined by each individual LTL freight carrier.

The base rate is the rate is the cost at which shipping starts.  The rate will go up from there dependent upon the weight, the miles travelled and where the package is shipped from and to.  Base LTL rates are often quoted based on one hundred pounds.  This rate is then modified/discounted dependant on the volume of shipments shipped, how many lanes are needed to pace the shipment between trucks and freight as well as things such as fuel and special deliveries.

Your freight will also be classified based upon what you are shipping.  Is the freight dense and storable or is it high-risk freight that needs special care and handling. This will factor into the overall cost to ship your products. Think about the difference in shipping stones verses cotton padding.

Distance and weight are also two large considerations that help to define the amount you will be charged for your LTL shipment.  If the distance the package needs to travel to is within your normal range than you will not pay an increase to ship however if your shipment needs to go outside of the normal delivery range you will pay more for the special handling.  Weight is always a factor in how much your shipment will cost.  The heavier a shipment the more fuel that is needed to ship the goods.  With LTL, the benefit is that you are only paying for what you need to ship and not the entire weight of the truckload.

LTL helps save companies on their logistic budgets.  There are many companies that ship LTL.  To find a company that best suits your business check online.  Compare companies, reviews and quotes.  Just because you save money doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting a good deal on shipping, the quality of the shipper must play a role as well.

Detroit LTL

Tips on Purchasing a House on a Golf Course

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Living on a golf course is a goal for many retirees that are looking for the relaxation and sport in the later years of life.  The attraction home buyers find when looking into purchasing a home on a golf course is undeniable.  Who would not want to stroll around on the well manicured landscape that comes with golf courses, the views and the attraction of walking out your front door and into a game of golf?  The truth is though that often times the allure fades fast when you are out walking the dog in the early morning hours in your own back yard only to find a stranger rummaging through your bushes to find his golf ball that disappeared.

Where ever you choose to live there are advantages and disadvantages that come along with the dream.  The thought of sitting on the deck, eating breakfast with your spouse watching the latest group of golfers pass by laughing and enjoying their round of golf is a delightful vision.  However the rowdy bachelor party golfing behind them, who are loud, crude and cursing not so much a delight.

Here you will find some things you will want to take into consideration before putting the down the payment on a new home situated on a golf course, the good and bad.

The hole in which your home is situated by plays a large part in helping to decide if the location on the golf course fits with what you are looking for.

If you are looking at a home by the tee you have the advantage of seeing a critical power shot.  The major disadvantage is that this is when people are most upset if their shot goes amiss.  Consider that a new group of golfers will tee off at any given spot every twenty minutes or so.

If you are considering a home that is in the middle of the hole to the right or to the left of it there are things to consider as well.  The view at this position is most often beautiful in landscape and it is a stunning view, most of the time, of the entire hole.  The major downside is that most golfers aren’t very good and their aim tends to spew balls in several crazy directions, one of which could be your home.  Those beautiful windows that open your home to the views and beauty of the course could be in harm’s way.

Homes set on the green are often ideal.  The shots that are taken here are usually shorter therefore less wild and less likely to be found in your window pane.  It is also usually very quiet as the putting green tends to be a place of great concentration for most golfers.  The disadvantage is that the greens tend to be mowed every day on many courses thus possibly interfering with your sleep.

Golf courses attract many home buyers to them each year so the advantages must outweigh the disadvantages.  The beauty of the landscape and well manicured lawns bring a peace only a beautiful natural environment can.  The best piece of advice any realtor specializing in golf course living will tell you is to talk, chat with the neighbors.  They will not be shy in telling you what annoys them about their community but more importantly will want to share everything that makes the environment one that you will want to purchase a home in.

Lake and Land Real Estate

Living the Dream With a Lake Front Home Purchase

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Many buyers come in looking to purchase a home on the water.  Lake living is a dream come true for many home buyers.  Living on the water comes with a serene reality of lazy days spent in the sun, enjoying some outdoor adventure.  This is what most buyers looking for water front property are looking for.  When considering a home on a lake there are a few things to think about before signing on the dotted line.

When you are considering a waterfront home you need to ask about the amount of waterfront property that your home is attached to.  In some lakes the land is cut up in an unnatural manner so you will want to ask specifically how much waterfront footage goes along with the house. This is especially important if you are looking to launch a boat.  In order to install a dock or pier you should aim to purchase a home with at least one hundred feet of waterfront acreage.  This is the number on piece of leverage you have when buying or selling a water front home.  This number increases or decreases the homes overall value.

Curb appeal is a hard thing for some to grasp when purchasing a home that is situated on the water.  The side of your home that is visible to the street is the area in which homeowners consider needing curb appeal.  This is however untrue in lake front living. When you purchase a home on a lake the front of the house is facing the water.  The front door of your home is the lake side, your front yard.  Many homes on the water will have the kitchen, dining room or bedroom facing the water so that the owner can enjoy the view.

When purchasing a home on a lake you will want to consider the type of lot you are purchasing with your home.  Are you hoping to use the lake for boating or is it just going to be for visual stimulation.  Flat lots of land on a lake often equate to shallow water where as steep lots often mean that the lake water has some depth to it.  Be sure to get information concerning the lake that you are looking to purchase a home on.  If you are looking to cruise around in a speed boat all day but find yourself in a shallow lake better suited for a pontoons’ snail pace you will be disappointed.

Another consideration is the purchase of flood insurance which will ultimately up the monthly out-put needed for lake living.  Some lake homes can get away with no flood insurance do to their location on the property.  For instance, if your home is on a steep hill that is an acre away from the water a land surveyor may be able to help you remove the restriction your mortgage company may place on your loan.  This is something to consider before closing on a home.  Flood insurance starts at around twelve hundred dollars a year on a home valued at around one hundred and fifty thousand dollars.

When really considering lake living, contact a real estate agent that specializes in lake homes. They will be the best equipped realtor to know the ins and outs of a great lake home.  They will know what to look for and what to stay away from.  They are also better versed in the surrounding bodies of water knowing which ones are all-sports lakes verse independent no-wake lakes.  Once you buy your dream home on a lake you will be ready to sit back and take in a big breath of fresh lake air.

Lake and Land Real Estate