Livingston Reporting - page 267

Buying Your First Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

After years and years of renting apartments the thought of buying your first home can be exciting and a bit terrifying.  Though the process itself can be a bit challenging the satisfaction at the end is a feeling that nothing in your life will ever compare to.  Buying a home, your first real estate transaction, is an exhilarating experience.  Your first home purchase will be the biggest investment you make up to this point in your life.  It is crucial to be wise and employ the best approach possible to ensure you are making an intelligent investment.

Hire an agent

The first piece of advice all first time home buyers should consider is to hire an agent that specializes in the location you are looking to move.  Having an experienced, certified realtor will help to ensure you have the widest selection of homes to view.  Knowledge and experience are two key characteristics that are must haves when selecting a buyer’s agent.   They must offer an extensive familiarity with the location you are looking to find a home.  This allows them to view listings and evaluate if they are over or under priced for the area, saving you both time.  Looking at homes that are a solid investment with room to build equity is especially important when buying a first home.

The agent you hire must also have experience and connections within the industry.  These connections are what help agent’s scope out listings before they are even advertised.  Having first dibs on a home is a terrific advantage in a competitive real estate market.  This is especially important when you have exhausted the available options within your criteria and are feeling hopeless about finding a home.  The process of buying a home can be long and tedious which is why it is crucial you hire an agent with both experience and knowledge.

Get Pre-Approved

Once you have found an agent that you are comfortable working with it is time to get a concrete idea of exactly what you can afford.  Many real estate professionals can help you find a company to work with in getting pre-approval.  Once that number is established getting a seller to accept your offer is better.  Sellers like to commit to buyers who are going to be able to get home loans.  Sellers do not want to commit to a buyer only later to learn that they do not qualify for the amount that was offered.  This is a waste of valuable time in selling their home.

With pre-approval a buyer is guaranteeing that they have met the qualifications lenders need to secure a home loan.  It means that your criterion, income verse debt, matches the needs of a mortgage lender thus you can commit to the purchase of a home.  Without pre-approval sellers are gambling on you and cannot be positive that you will be able to secure a loan for the required amount.

Starting out looking for your first home can be a bit tricky.  With a pre-approval in hand, a knowledgeable and experienced agent at your side the process is simplified significantly.

Lady of the Lakes Real Estate is Livingston County’s premiere realtor; out of Pinckney, Michigan helping buyers buy and sellers sell homes that provide a recreational lifestyle including golf courses, lakes and the Huron river chain of lakes, throughout Brighton, Howell, Pinckney and the surrounding area.  More information can be found at http://www.ladyofthelakes.com.

C21 Lady of the Lakes

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Advice For First Time Home Buyers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Buying your first home is exciting and a bit scary.  If you are an eager first-time homebuyer here are some tips as you take the plunge.

Mortgage Calculator: Check out an online mortgage calculator before calling a lender or a real estate agent.  This will give you an idea of exactly where you stand when you start your search. A mortgage calculator will allow you to see exactly what your monthly mortgage payment would be and you can determine if this is a step you are ready to take on.

Pre-approval:  Once you have determined the payment you are comfortable with and the price point at which that is speak with a mortgage lender.  This is a crucial step because this is the highest point at which you should have your realtor look for homes for you to view.  A pre-approval is something most sellers are looking for when they accept an offer from a buyer.  This is an important step in the buying process.

Find a Realtor:  Buying a home, especially your first, requires the assistance of a real estate agent.  Find a realtor that specializes in the area that you are looking to purchase.  Talk with them about their feelings on the area; is this a solid investment that will be able to build up equity.  You are not only buying a home you are making a financial investment.

Check Selling Prices:  Are the local selling prices within the amount you are pre-approved for?  If not are you willing to check into other areas or does this take you out of the housing market?

Total Monthly Costs:  Look into the monthly costs associated with your mortgage, utilities and other outside expenses that you have.  The goal in purchasing a home is not to go into debt; it is to be able to live in a home of your own.  The key there is to live.  You need to look at the big picture and make sure that you are not financially putting yourself at risk.  Don’t feel that just because you are approved for a certain amount that is what you need to spend on a home.  Purchase a home with monthly payments that are affordable and that allow you to make improvements to the home, building equity, as well as living life.

Prepare For The Hunt:  If the numbers make sense and you are ready to take the plunge get ready for the hunt of a lifetime.  Finding your first home is a thrilling adventure.  Once you find it you will know and then you get to venture into the realm of mortgages and home loans.

Cross Country Mortgage in Brighton, Michigan provide mortgage services for clients including new home loans, refinancing, reversed mortgages, new purchase home mortgages and home equity loans to the entire Livingston County area including Brighton, Howell and Livingston County. Cross Country Mortgage Brighton, MI at http://brightoncrosscountry.com/.

 

Brighton Cross Country Mortgage

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Save Money Using Reconditioned Electrical Components

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

If you are looking for a real way to cut costs and save money during electrical projects consider using busway and bust ducts that are used and reconditioned.  A great advantage in using bus bars or bus ducts in electrical components is that you are able to achieve more flexible power distribution.  They are also beneficial because they are able to carry and regulate large currents of electricity.

Copper, plated aluminum and steel are the most common materials in which electrical busway and bus duct components are crafted out of.  In order to run large scale electrical equipment in several areas within an industrial setting and to remain cost effective busways, bus ducts and bus plugs are employed.  In both manufacturing and industrial settings the machines require a lot of electricity.

Normal electrical outlets do not carry enough electricity to power these large machines.  When the electrical need changes normal outlets do not cut it.  In order to manage the large supply of electricity these systems are put into place and are able to be changed in and out as needed.  If more electricity is needed, more is added.  If less is needed, it is taken away and added to another area where it will be useful.

To save money many companies turn to reconditioned or refurbished bus plugs, bus ducts and busway electrical components.  This can noticeably lessen the expense of any project.  The question that is often asked is if reconditioned electrical components are as reliable as new ones.  The answer to that is simple, yes.  Refurbished electrical components are completely repurposed so that you can enjoy the same benefits using them as you would new ones.

New products are more expensive because of the cost of the initial raw materials that are needed to create them.  To be cost effective parts are refurbished and sold at only a fraction of the cost of new products.  Repurposed electrical components are just as good as new ones.  They are also environmentally friendly and allow you to allocate funds within your electrical budget elsewhere.

No matter what you choose new or refurbished products choose a company that sells a variety of electrical components to choose from.  Whether you need to repair a new or obsolete piece of equipment they should have what you need in stock.  The last thing you need is downtime when you are trying to run a business.  Consider using refurbished bus ducts, bus plugs and busway electrical components when you are in the midst of a new project or need replacement parts to keep your company running smoothly.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

J & P Electrical Company

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Keeping Your Roof In Shape Before, During and After the Storm

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The one thing we are familiar with in the northeast is the fact that storms are going to be a part of our lives and our homes.  After a storm has passed you may think you are in the clear.  This however is not the case.  We know another storm will come and because of that we need to ensure that we maintain and prepare ourselves and our homes for the next one.  To ensure our homes are protected from passing storms we need to do a thorough check to make sure our homes roof and windows are ready.

Before the Storm

The first thing that you should do is to hire a professional roof contractor to establish a norm for your homes roof.  It is better to begin the storm season with a roof that is in top shape.  A roofing contractor can access your homes roof and repair areas of weakness before the storm.  Repairing areas that are weak will help prevent damage from occurring; if damage occurs during a storm it will less likely be severe because of the preventative maintenance that took place.

After the Storm

Preventing major damage is key when maintaining your homes roof.  This is true even after a storm has passed.  It is important that you continue to protect and safeguard the roof after each storm has come and gone.  The first thing that needs to be done after you are sure that the risk of danger is gone is assess any current damage.  See how much damage was done during the storm, if any.  If any shingles have been damaged or torn off it is important that roof repairs are performed by a professional roofing contractor.  Repairs need to occur before the next storm; it is vital to prevent major damage during the next storm.

If the storm was substantial it is important to look for hidden damage.  If you are unable to assess the top of the roof it is crucial to have a roofing contractor out to review the roof for cracks and hidden faults.  Immediate action is needed to ensure that the damage doesn’t cause further issues especially for the interior of your home.

Before the Next Storm

Depending on the condition of your roof, the number of patches and repairs that have been done over the years, you may start to consider a full replacement.  Shingle roofs last anywhere from fifteen to twenty five years, you can continue to repair a shingle roof but it is crucial to weigh your options.  How long will the repairs last verse the expense of a whole new roof?   Often times the choice is clear; a new roof is the better option than continuing to spend time and money repairing an old one.

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

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Persuade Consumers Using Shrink Sleeve Labeling

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In order for your product to succeed in the market today it is crucial to have a product label that ensures it stands out amongst the competition.  The label on your product, when designed properly, will influence consumers buying decision.  Labeling is a crucial part of any marketing mix.  It is necessary that the right material is chosen for your label in order to maximize the success of your venture.

There are a variety of materials to choose from in labeling; one of the best being shrink sleeves.  What is important, when selecting a material to use in your products labeling is that you focus on the option that comes with the most benefits.  When you are able to see the benefits in the material you have chosen for your products label you can easily guarantee your satisfaction.

To understand the multitude of benefits offered with shrink sleeves we will discuss some of the stand outs below.

Affordable Material: In business we are always looking to save a few dollars where we can.  We try to do this in ways that will not sacrifice the customer experience.  Labeling with shrink sleeves is one way in which manufacturers can accomplish this.  Shrink sleeves are made from affordable materials without forgoing quality.  Not only is the material used in shrink sleeve labeling affordable it is also the best option for product recognition.

Visual Impact: Shrink sleeves offer a great deal when it comes to design options.  With the three hundred and sixty degree space you can ensure that your product is displaying the image you wish to portray from all sides.  Shrink sleeve technology allows products of various shapes and sizes to achieve the most visual appeal possible in labeling.   Shrink sleeves offer unlimited options in color, texture and design making it preferred label method amongst product manufacturers.  Consumers as well visually enjoy the look and feel as well as the security offered with the use of shrink sleeve labeling.

Environmental Footprint: Another benefit that make shrink sleeve labels a good choice is that they can be used without causing harm to the environment.  The material that shrink sleeves are created from is biodegradable and will leave the smallest footprint on our environment.  You can achieve maximum results with your marketing mix without affecting the natural order of the environment.

Although labeling is one of the most basic components of your product it is important and should be designed effectively using a material that mutually benefits the manufacturer and the consumer.  Shrink sleeve labeling provides a number of benefits while being a material that is reliable, affordable, visually appealing and less harmful to our environment than other options in product labeling.

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

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Aluminum Is A Superior Choice In Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Aluminum is a premiere type of fencing to encompass the perimeter of your pool or landscape.  Not only is aluminum fencing aesthetically pleasing it is also durable and long lasting.  When it comes to variety, no other fencing material offers the benefits that aluminum does. Whether you are looking to enclose your pool or backyard an aluminum fence will give you the protection and satisfaction you are looking for.  Although aluminum is attractive it is the many other benefits and advantages it offers that makes it the top choice for residential and commercial buyers alike.

What makes aluminum a better material for fencing?

  • Maintenance Free:  The last thing homeowners are looking for is one more thing in the yard to take care of.  That is just one reason that aluminum is the perfect option in fencing for your pool or landscape.  Due to the powder coating on aluminum fencing it does not rust; the layer of coating helps to protect the alloy while enhancing the product.  Unlike other materials in fencing, aluminum does not require updated painting, staining or power washing to ensure that it looks as good as the day you installed it even ten years later.
  • Safety Standards: Aluminum offers so much more than beauty to both residential and commercial users.  If you are looking for a fence that meets the latest standards and regulations set forth by the B.O.C.A. look no further than resort style aluminum fencing; designed specifically for pool safety in mind. 

Keeping in line with pool safety, aluminum fence panels can be ordered in a variety of heights.  To meet safety regulations the fence needs to be at least forty eight inches tall.  There must also me a minimum space between the lower top rail and bottom top rail of at least forty five inches as well as a space of less than four inches between the pickets. The panels are made in consideration that the ground is less than four inches away from the bottom rail of the fence.  An aluminum gate must be self closing and latching as well as that it opens away from the pool area.  The last requirement in pool fencing is that the latch on the gate is more than fifty four inches off the ground. All of these requirements are in place to keep small pets and children from entering the area without direct parental supervision.  

  • Economical: Aluminum is not the cheapest material in fencing upfront however given the time and money that you won’t waste on maintenance aluminum is the most economical way to go.  You will never have to spend a weekend painting the fence to make it look amazing or waste money hiring someone.  Aluminum fencing looks as good as the day it was installed with a quick wash every once in a great while. 
  • Style: No other material in fencing comes in as many varieties to choose from as does aluminum.  Decorative aluminum fencing comes in so many variations and colors that one is sure to match the look you desire for your home or pool.  You can choose from classic black to ornate green; whatever you can imagine there is surely an aluminum fence style to suit. Rest assured there is a color and style of aluminum fencing meant for your home.

iFence USA offers a 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 value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying aluminum fences shipped factory-direct from http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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The Necessity Of Computers In Our Everyday Life

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Like it or not computers have become more of a necessity than not. Computers are no longer a nonessential piece of equipment in your life. Everywhere you turn computers are present from the office to the gas station life is made easier because of them. They help add to the attractiveness of your office and school presentations as well as increase the accuracy of your banking and tax calculations. In our normal every day routines, computers have done a variety of things for us some that we may even take for granted day to day.

Computer variations are abundant. No matter what form the computer you use comes in one thing is true of all of them; computers are smart, fragile, require care and regular maintenance. We should never take technology for granted; we should never treat the computers we use recklessly. The hardware inside our computer systems can be damaged with improper use. This will affect the performance of your computer. In order to keep your computers running at their best you need to take proper care of them inside and out. Proper maintenance will keep computers, big and small, running at optimal efficiency.

One thing that computer owners can do to ensure their computers are kept running up to par is by covering them. Dust is an enemy of computer systems and can enter through even the tiniest crevices. Once dust settles on computer hardware it can start to cause harm. Dust on the central processing unit causes a weird humming noise that stems from the fan. The computer may not perform well or may end up crashing if too much dust and debris is allowed to build up. Keep your computer covered when you are not using it to prevent dust from building up. Regular maintenance in the form of a computer tune up yearly can help as well.

Prevention is the best way to keep your computer running optimally. This is one of the many reasons that it is best not to eat or drink while using your computer. Laptops and desktops alike are prone to serious damage when exposed to liquids of any kind. Small particles entering the keyboard can also cause damage that will affect the computer negatively. The best practice when it comes to a computer is to avoid drinking and eating while on using your system.

When you regularly maintain your computer it will run smoother. Regularly scan your computer for malware and virus’s. Keeping your anti-virus up to date and run regular scans to prevent malware and viruses from taking hold of the software within your computer. Keeping your computer files protected will help ensure that your computer will not need major computer repairs later on down the road.

These are just a few tips to help you keep your computer running correctly no matter what you use it for in your day to day life.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repairas well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas. You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.

Creative Programs and Systems

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Choosing Aluminum Over Other Types Of Fencing Materials

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Are you interested in installing an aluminum fence in your yard or around your in-ground swimming pool? Before you design, order or install your new fence it is important to understand the benefits and advantages to the material you are selecting. The goal when installing a new fence is to choose a material and style of fencing that works well with the look of your home. It is also important that the fence meets your expectation in regards to ease of installation and maintenance as well. When looking into different materials for your fence you will see that aluminum fencing is the only way to go.

The benefits derived from aluminum fencing over other materials are abundant. Below you will find the top five reasons consumers give when selecting aluminum fencing for their swimming pools or the perimeter of their landscape.

Visual Appeal: Aluminum is the most aesthetically pleasing material that can be chosen for fencing. It is that may have available in a number of styles and color combinations; one is sure to accentuate your home and landscape perfectly. The appeal of aluminum extends to an increase in property value for your home as well.

Maintenance Level: One of the most beloved characteristics of aluminum fence is the care level at which it takes to maintain the fence. Aluminum is basically maintenance free. It does not require painting, staining or yearly power washing. In order to allow aluminum to look as beautiful as the day it was installed spray it yearly with a garden hose and be sure to remove any algae or moss. An aluminum fence is the most sturdy and durable type of fencing available. It will stand the test of time wearing better than any other fencing material on the market today.

Safe and Secure: Aluminum fence panels can be purchased in a variety of heights. This will ensure that your homes perimeter will not only keep your kids and pets safe within; it also ensures that others stay out. This is true for aluminum pool fencing that is installed around an in-ground swimming pool. The fence height can be ordered to meet B.O.C.A. regulations. This will help to keep little ones out of the area while not in the presence of an adult.

Colors, Style and Sizes: Variety is something that aluminum fencing is never short on. There are several styles, colors and ornamental decorations to choose from when looking into a fence for your yard. Aluminum fence panels are truly customizable to your particular need. No other fence material has as many variations as aluminum does.

Ease of Installation: Aluminum fence is one material that can be installed on your own and look as if it was done by professional fence installers. The process of installing an aluminum fence is fairly simple. Following the step by step instructions and using online support, installing your new perimeter fence can be simply done within a weekend.

When you look into other fence materials you will see how aluminum outweighs the competition in every way. Aluminum fence offers a large variety of choices is visually beautiful, maintenance free, secure and can be installed easily; what more could you ask for?

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 http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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Use Shrink Sleeve Labeling To Attract Customers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Shrink sleeve labeling is a marketing tactic that many product manufactures have already turned to.  When walking into any grocery store you will see how prominent shrink sleeve labeling is with a number of different products. Take note the next time you go into a store; check out the variety of products that use shrink sleeve labeling.

The trend of shrink sleeves has become such a popular option in marketing because of the many benefits it provides to both marketers and consumers.

One of the most obvious benefits that come with shrink sleeve labeling is the ability for it to take on the same shape as any product.  Irregularly shaped products are easily labeled with shrink sleeve.  They take away the headaches that are encountered with packaging, shipping and of course labeling.  Greater efficiency comes along with the use of shrink sleeves.

Another major benefit of shrink sleeves is that they are tamper proof.  Shrink sleeves cover the entire product.  The sleeve conforms to the shape or the product and is designed to cover the entire product.  This is so important when it comes to the beverage and pharmaceutical industries but of course applies across the board.

Shrink sleeve labeling offers one hundred percent visibility.  This is unheard of in standard labeling in which only the front of the label is used for marketing.  The sides and back portion often are left for ingredient lists, UPC labels and other product information that is not necessarily important in the marketing of your product.  With shrink sleeve labeling important details and marketing information can be seen from all angels because of the three hundred and sixty degree radius shrink sleeve marketing offers products.

A great deal of variety is available when it comes to the versatility the shrink sleeves offer in labeling.   Shrink sleeves can be designed with a variety of affects including metallic, pearlescent and thematic to create a variety of effects on the labels that are printed for you.  Your ideas will not be difficult to manufacture when you use shrink sleeve labeling.

Another benefit that comes with shrink sleeves is how affordable they are in comparison to the benefits derived from labeling.  Shrink sleeves offer increased visibility using only a thin sheet of plastic film.

Labeling that uses the option of shrink sleeves will guarantee you a numerous number of advantages over other types of labeling.  Increased marketing, along with numerous other benefits make the advantages of shrink sleeve labeling a clear choice.

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

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Tips On Finding A Divorce Attorney

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

If you are sure your marriage is at the end of the line, beyond repair is better to have a consult with a family law, divorce attorney.  In order to make it through one of the most difficult processes of your life you must make sure you have as much information as possible.  You need an attorney that fits comfortably with your end goals; this will require trust and good communication between the two of you.  Over the next few months the two of you will work closely together; leaving you divulging important personal and financial information to someone who months ago was a perfect stranger.

Here are some tips to consider when shopping around for a divorce attorney:

Don’t Tell Your Spouse

Until you are fully aware of all of your rights and responsibilities it is best to keep your hunt for a divorce attorney on the down low from your significant other.  If your spouse finds out that you are looking for an attorney they may stop contributing to the household, remove joint funds out of the bank and stop paying bills.  It is best to find out where you stand legally before you notify your spouse that you have found an attorney specializing in divorce and family law.

Your Family Matters

Choose an attorney that specializes in family law.  As a mother you know the sole focus throughout the divorce needs to be your children and their needs.  A family law attorney should be able to put you in contact with experts in counseling children as well as experts in your personal wellbeing.

Ask Around For Referrals

If you have friends that are recently divorced ask about any attorney recommendations.  Your lawyer’s strengths should match your needs.  Don’t solely go based off of a favorable settlement achieved by the lawyer.  None of that will mean that they will be supportive as you proceed through the divorce process.  Even with a stellar recommendation from a friend or family you need to make sure the referral meets your needs.

Consider the Fees & Charges

Most divorce attorneys charge between three to five hundred dollars an hour.  Determine what the attorney’s retainer fee is and see what you realistically can afford.  Going into debt hiring a divorce attorney is not going to help your end game.  Find an attorney that you can afford that also fits the criteria you have in place with your wants and needs in the end.

Have a Thorough Consultation

During your consultation it is crucial that your attorney gets as much information as possible from you.  Often divorce attorneys offer a free; during this consultation the attorney will want to find out about your children, your income and your assets.  With your objectives and the information you provide the attorney will talk with you about what is realistic, what you should expect going further and what you can do to better your chances to achieve your goals.  This is a good time to get a feel for how your attorney will listen to you and communicate with you in the future.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Women/Mom’s in divorce throughout Trenton and the surrounding Michigan areas. Find us at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerforwomen.com.

Longton Law

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