Livingston Reporting - page 216

Insight Into The 2017 Real Estate Market

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Will you be shopping for a new home in 2017?  Below is some insight into the real estate market and what home buyers can expect as they begin their hunt for either a new home or their first home.

The real estate market has been affected due to the election that recently occurred.  Interest rates on home loans and refinancing have risen point fifty percent over the past two months.  Even with this increase the housing market on a whole remains strong.  It is important to consider that the market could see a rise in real estate markets under this new leadership.  The prospect of higher interest rates and increased real estate costs may create a sense of urgency amongst buyers going into the spring season.

The traditional timing of first time buyers is changing.  People are no longer waiting until they are married to look into homeownership.  More single people are choosing to purchase homes than ever before.  The 2017 real estate market will see more and more home buyers that are single verse real estate trends of the past in which typically home buyers were married couples.

Those seeking investment properties most often have the same goal, price appreciation.  If the goal for 2017 is to acquire additional properties as investments look where home values are set to increase the most.  For almost all areas larger price increases can be seen on property within larger metropolitan areas.  Not only property values increase either.  The amount of rent that can be charged is significantly higher than the rural area surrounding the metropolis.

It is critical that first time home buyers concern themselves with more than just the initial down payment.  The costs of obtaining a mortgage are additional to the actual down payment on a home.  A home costing $150,000 could require a twenty percent down payment and two percent closing costs.  Thus the amount due at closing would be $30,000 for the down payment and upwards of $3000 for the closing fees.

It is also important for first time home buyers to have a nest egg of funds put aside for unexpected emergencies that can arise with homeownership.  Inspections are not a hundred percent failure proof.  Sometimes there are things that aren’t noticed until you are living in the home.   Maybe the water backs up when you are running the dishwasher and washing machine.   This may not be something caught during the inspection process. The nature of the issue is not something that is common for home inspectors to look into during the home inspection process.  These small issues can add to the financial pinch of a new mortgage and should be planned for ahead of time.  The last thing new homeowners want to do is to put debt on to credit cards.  A cash emergency fund is the best way to handle the unforeseen.

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. Find out more at http://www.ladyofthelakes.com.

C21 Lady of the Lakes

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Save Money With Refurbished Electrical Components

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A great way for businesses to save money is to look into purchasing used or refurbished electrical components to replace components that have failed.  It is important when buying used or refurbished circuit breakers, transformers, bus ducts and plugs to make purchases from a reputable, trusted source.

There are risks involved in purchasing refurbished electrical components from unknown sources.    Components with visible damage, rust, missing pieces or illegible labeling there is an added risk.  It is important that the part that is purchased and received is in good shape and labeled appropriately.    Without much needed information on amps or wattage, especially when working with electricity, there is a greater risk of danger.  Precautions should always be taken when working with electricity.

Avoid the following when looking into buying used or refurbished electrical components:

Before you make a purchase be sure you fully understand what you need. Don’t assume the seller is educated on what you need.  As a buyer the more information you have the better off you are in getting exactly what is needed.  The brand name and catalog number are always good to have on hand when searching for a necessary component.  All of this knowledge helps to protect you, the buyer, from dodgy sellers.

It is best never to buy used or refurbished electrical components off of an ad where specific details about the product are not given.  As a buyer it is your right to know all of the details about a specific product including exactly what condition it is in upon purchase. If the information that you need is not clearly listed ask for the information in writing.

Another thing to look into when purchasing refurbished components online is to look to see if the online store also has a brick and mortar shop.  Many times companies operate both online and at a store front.  If this is the case be sure to research both aspects of their business to get a clear picture of who you are dealing with.  Companies that operate both online and in person often have a deadline on when you can return products as well as a fee for restocking the item.

Here is a list of questions to assist you when talking with sellers of used or refurbished electrical components.

  • It is important to first distinguish if the product you are purchasing is new, used or refurbished. This should be the first question you ask.  The price of the component should also reflect the difference.
  • If the component has been refurbished ask about the process the company uses to refurbish their components prior to sale.
  • Ask if there is a warranty or guarantee on the product.
  • If it is a used product is sure to clarify if the equipment is in working condition or if it is only good for parts.
  • Check to see if used or refurbished components have been tested.

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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Protect Your Home For Winter Damage

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Winter is here; fortunately for homeowners here in the north it isn’t too late to protect their roofs against the damage the season can bring.  Below is a simple guide for homeowners to follow in order to protect their roofs from damage while helping to lower overall energy bills.

One of the most important things that you can do for your home during the spring and fall seasons is to clean out the gutters around the home.  The gutters will take a thorough beating throughout the winter if accumulated debris builds up.   Not only will the gutters crack, split and start to peel away from the roof the winter weather can wreak havoc on the trim and siding because of damage being done to the homes gutters.

Gutters that become clogged are not effective in letting water runoff drain from the roof.  The most often resulting in ice dams which if left untreated can turn into leaks within the interior of the home.  It is crucial during the winter season that the gutters stay free of debris to allow the water to flow and divert the water away from the home protecting the home inside and out.

Debris doesn’t only wreak havoc with the homes gutter it also can cause damage to shingling.  Extra fall leaves left building up on the roof retain moisture and then will freeze and thaw throughout the season.  This process will eventually lead to cracking and a reduced life expectancy to the asphalt shingling on the roof.  It is important to trim trees that hang over the homes roof. The constant back and forth of branches scraping on the homes roof can lead to wear thus wearing away the materials that the roof is composed of.  This can lead to roof damage and leaks.

It is important that homeowners take time to repair damage to a home’s roof before the winter weather strikes.  Small cracks in shingling will only become extreme issues if left to go through the freeze, thaw, and melt cycle that occurs throughout the winter.  These issues turn from small, minor repair issues into expensive full roof replacements depending on the strength of the winter storms that occur throughout the season.

Another aspect of maintenance to perform on roofing before the winter season is in full swing is to re-caulk joints and flashing that is showing signs of wear.  These areas on a roof are already highly susceptible to leaking.  The winter weather adds another element of wear to an already fragile point on the roof.

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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Avoiding Damage To Your Roof This Winter

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is important that homeowners don’t neglect the exterior of their homes during the winter season, especially the homes roof.  Winter weather is particularly hard on a home’s roof.  From heavy snow to ice dams there are many warning signs for homeowners to look for to prevent damage to the homes roof.  Small roofing problems can easily be repaired before they turn into an expensive new roof needing to be installed.  Continue reading for information on what you should be looking for to avoid winter roofing hassles.

Damage Ice Storms 

After your area has gone through the experience of an ice storm it important to have the homes roof inspected by a professional roofing contractor.  It is hard for the inexperienced eye to spot the damage that occurs from hail and ice but for a roofing contractor it is pretty evident.  Ice damage occurs in many forms including deep dimples in the roof surface, cracked shingles, loose asphalt granules and missing roofing aspects.

Ice Dams and Heavy Snow Buildup

Snow always appears so light and fluffy as it falls from the sky.  The reality however is that after snow has settled on your roof and had time to thaw from any temperature difference the melted snow is incredibly heavy.  This weight puts a great deal of pressure on the roof which can lead to pressure cracks and in turn leaks.  A similar concept occurs when snow melts and refreezes around the edge of the roof creating ice dams.  Water that would normally run off of the roof has nowhere to go and in turn continues to freeze along the edge.  This leads to weight damage on the roof or interior leaks.

Failing Flashing

Harsh winter weather is notorious for the damage that it does to the roofs flashing.  Flashing is the metal that is applied over the roof joints to help direct the flow of water.  It is also used around skylights, dormer windows, vents and such.  Although it is a durable material the winter weather can take a toll on it.  If flashing damage goes untreated homeowners can expect to experience leaks and interior water damage.

Winter weather varies a great deal from location to location.  Winters here in the north alone vary a great deal.  One day we are dealing with temperatures in the upper forties and the next we are experiencing two feet drifts of snow.  With this in mind it is important that homeowners get into a routine.  Roofing contractors can be hired to do bi-yearly screenings of your homes roof, during the spring and fall to pinpoint problem areas before they become bigger issues.  Homeowners should become familiar with their roofs as well in order to perform periodic checks for damage that is above and beyond normal wear and tear.

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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Safely Delivering Radiation Using Linear Accelerator Equipment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Linac, short for linear accelerator, is a piece of medical equipment used in radiology.  It matches high powered x-ray energy up with the shape of cancerous tumors, destroying the cancerous cells while preserving the healthy tissue surrounding the area.    Using a linear accelerator, oncology radiologists can be sure that a higher does than what has been prescribed is not being delivered to the area.  The machines are frequently checked by medical physicists to ensure proper function.

As a patient needing radiation therapy a treatment plan is developed specifically for you with the support of experts including a radiation oncologist, a radiation dosimetrist and a medical physicist.  Before the treatment begins your oncologist with double a triple check the plan and create a course of action to ensure that the radiation is delivered in the exact same manner each and every time.

LINAC devices are used to provide external beam radiation treatments for cancer patients.  The linear accelerator treats various areas throughout the body.  The concentrated x-ray beams are centered on the tumor in hope that the healthy tissue surrounding the tumor will be spared.  The linear accelerator allows the x-rays to be sent in the shape of the tumor using blocks in the head of the machine or a multi-leaf collimator that is a part of the machine head.

During treatment the patient is positioned on a moveable couch like table.  The patient remains still while the table and linear accelerator is moved into position for optimal treatment of the tumor.  The linear accelerator is operated by a radiation therapist.  This professional is in charge of actually delivering the correct dose of radiation prescribed by the radiation oncologist.

When radiation is delivered the safety of the patient and the therapist is of utmost importance.  In order to ensure that the proper treatment plan is in place it is thoroughly checked by the radiation oncologist, radiation dosimetrist and physicist before the treatments are performed.   Several quality control checks are in place to ensure that the treatment is given as prescribed.

Systems are built directly into the linear accelerator to ensure that a dose higher then what is prescribed is not delivered to the patient.  Checks are preformed daily by the linear accelerator operator, radiation therapist, to make certain the radiation intensity is uniform across the beam and that the machine is in proper working order.  On top of this the radiation physicist performs weekly and monthly checks on the machine.  Modern day LINAC have internal systems that check the machine and do not allow it to be turned on until all of the treatment requirements are met.  Patient and operator safety is of utmost important when radiation distribution is concerned.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.

Acceletronics, RadParts

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Success In Expanding Medical Facilities

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Medical facilities are in a constant state of growth.  Centers that continue with the status quo path become stagnant.  It is imperative, for services to continue, that facilities keep up with the changing treatment options technology offers patients.  Refusing to keep pace with changing technology will inevitably cause your medical center to crumble.  In order to thrive and be successful in your endeavors your goal must remain steadfast; you must offer patients an unwavering commitment to the quality of patient care through trained staff and up to date equipment.

As a hospital or clinic continues to increase the services they provide they will most likely encounter the need to purchase large scaled equipment like linear accelerators and ct scanners.  Medical machinery is not mass produced and therefore each piece of equipment will have its own unique set of quirks.  With most facilities purchasing refurbished medical equipment, parts and supplies a review of the machines service history can be quiet telling.  Take a close look into what services have been performed and the frequency of service.

After this step is complete the next step is to analyze how the machine was previously utilized.  In linear accelerators each system has a set number of hours beams can expect to perform.  Reviewing this will allow you to see just how much the equipment has been used therefore allowing you to make certain estimations about its future.

The final step before making any purchase is to perform a physical inspection of the piece of equipment you are looking to purchase.  When performing the inspection you can get a detailed look at the machine.  It is also the time when you can ask questions regarding the systems usage on a daily basis.  This is crucial in learning the machines idiosyncrasies prior to using it in your own facility.

When budgeting for the purchase of a used or refurbished linear accelerator one of the main concerns should be the overall cost of owning and operating the machine.  When a machine is refurbished it is either done so for mechanical and/or cosmetic purposes.  Linear accelerators that have been refurbished operate as good as new LINAC.  Ask the seller for a detailed service report that includes all of the services that were performed before and during the refurbishing process.  Decipher what parts on the equipment have been replaced.  Were they replaced with new or refurbished parts?  Understand the warranty for both the machine and components to determine what you will be responsible for verse what is covered if the machine should fail in the future.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.

Acceletronics, RadParts

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The Process Of Buying A Linear Accelerator

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It takes a great deal of forethought when purchasing any large piece of medical equipment, especially a linear accelerator.  The process of buying medical equipment should be left to an experienced team of experts.  It takes a great deal of planning and commitment to quality in order to ensure the equipment purchased meets your facilities exact needs.

Each of these three elements: an experienced team, commitment to quality and detailed planning all make for successful purchasing of a linear accelerator or other large pieces of medical equipment.  When you begin researching linear accelerators there are a number of things to take into account including: the facilities budget, the actual cost of the equipment, operating costs and the facilities objectives.

Linear accelerators are an essential piece of equipment for a radiation oncology department to successfully treat clients.  This piece of machinery allows for a complete patient treatment plan to be provided. Although necessary the purchase of such large scaled medical equipment can be complex and expensive.  Purchasing used or refurbished LINAC machines over brand new equipment allows medical facilities a more reasonably priced manner in which to accumulate pieces; thus allowing them to continue bringing unparalleled care to their patients.

Your facilities needs and budget will help to define whether you should be looking into new, used or refurbished linear accelerators.  In smaller medical facilities purchasing used or refurbished equipment may offer you the best of both worlds: superb patient care along with profitability.  Refurbished linear accelerators are also a good option for facilities needing LINAC technology at a reasonable cost such as vet clinics, industrial users, research facilities and other non-medical uses.

There are many benefits to purchasing a refurbished linear accelerator for your facility.  It allows you to offer a service that may not have been previously offered which in turn allows your business to grow.  If your facility already offers radiation services, purchasing a refurbished linear accelerator allows you to service more patients and offer a backup in case one of the systems should fail.  It also allows for machines to be maintained and serviced without affecting the patient’s treatment plan.

Independent suppliers and service companies dedicated to selling and servicing refurbished linear accelerators and CT scanners are available to facilitate your purchase from start to finish.  They will assist your team of experts in creating a detailed plan considering physical building and room constraints as well as power and plumbing issues.  With your budget and timeline in mind they will help find refurbished equipment that meets your facilities needs.

From finding a machine from a preferred manufacturer, a machine that will meet or exceed your longevity needs, to obtaining equipment without unnecessary accessories and upgrades, the teams at Acceletronics and Radparts will help you find a refurbished linear accelerator or ct scanner that fits your facilities needs.

Acceletronics delivers the best equipment performance and service reliability from Linear Accelerators and CT Scanners across all major brands and models.  Our qualified oncology equipment specialists provide a quality customer experience across the USA with timely field maintenance.  We sell, repair, refurbish, move and finance oncology medical systems check out more at http://www.acceletronics.com.

 

 

Acceletronics, RadParts

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Is It Time To Replace Your PC

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

We get asked all the time if clients should replace their personal computers or if it is worth repairing.  Many of us get used to the quirks of our own computers.  Over time we know what works and what doesn’t. We know when to wiggle the connections and when a simple reboot will reset the system.  This is one reason it is so difficult to diagnosis when it’s time for a person’s PC to be upgraded.  Below are some of the signs we look for to know it is time to transfer that data to a new computer.

One sign that it is time to upgrade your PC is when you can no longer install the latest upgrades to the computers operating system.  New versions in operating systems weren’t always a priority for users however with the latest update to Windows 10 everything has changed.  Most of us stick with operating system our computers come with when we purchase them.  We ignore upgrades and continue functioning under the status quo of the system that is familiar to us.  Computer users with Windows XP are finding that computers still using this operating system are now obsolete.

We also know it is time to upgrade when users can no longer use the computer to run the latest apps and games.  Gaming on personal computers is costly.  All PC users try to “future-proof” their computers but there will always be something to upgrade when you own a personal computer.

Another reason to replace your PC is because it has become slow.  A slow computer means something different to every user.  You will know when your PC becomes too slow for you.  Does the computer boot up only after you have brewed an entire pot of coffee?  Can you type an entire sentence before even one word appears on the computer screen?  Is the computer grinding to a complete halt when you open more than a single screen?  If things used to work faster than they do and they are no longer functioning as you know them to it is time to upgrade your PC.

If you find yourself spending more time repairing your computer than enjoying it that is a clear sign you need to upgrade.  When it becomes a nuisance to own your personal computer then it is time to buy a new one.   Your computer should not crash without an explanation, the wi-fi should stay connected, systems should not freeze these are all signs, as is the blue screen of death, that your computer should be replaced.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as 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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Attract Customers With An Eye-Catching Label Design

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As you are looking to attract customers to purchase your product it is important to consider every aspect.  From the contents of the package to the outside label it is important to pay attention to what your target markets wants and needs.  A well designed, informative label is arguably one of the most significant features in getting consumers to purchase your product.  Don’t let budget restraints stall your efforts in making sure you get a label that is custom designed for your product.  Below are the fundamentals to ensure you get the label your product deserves:

When beginning the process of designing your label it is vital to the success of your product that consideration is given to the container.  Both the container and the label should merge together to create one unified package.  The container and label ratio should complement one another because an improper layout does not create the optimal image for success.

The design of the label should include high quality images.  Consumers will judge the quality of your product based on its overall appearance.  This is one of the reasons why label design should always be of the highest priority.  Not only should you use high quality images be certain to choose a label manufacturer that prints on materials of the highest quality.  Focus on both product packaging and label design to create the most visual appealing product possible.

Another crucial feature that should be prominent on your products label is your company’s logo.  The company logo helps to establish the brand the product belongs with.  Brand loyalty is a large part of a consumers buying decision.  With brands that are already well established it is important new products within the line are linked directly to the brand name.

As the label is being designed it is important to avoid focusing on the label as its own entity.  Consider the bigger picture; the label will be displayed next to its direct competition therefore should stand out.  The label artwork and company logo should be highly visible when the product is on display.  Avoid overcrowding the elements within the label.  Too much text, too many graphics or elements of design can take away from the overall message of the label.

These are just a few of the most basic best practices that are used in designing a custom label for your company products.  Using the above tips to communicate with a professional custom label designer will help ensure the best possible label for your product.

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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Top Reasons To Choose Shrink Sleeve Labels

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

What efforts are you making to ensure that your product is standing out amongst your competitors? One way many product manufacturers consider is to re-design your products existing label.  Shrink sleeve labels are a new style of label that has recently become popular when designing custom product labels.  These labels are designed to wrap around the entire product container. Shrink sleeves are adaptable, appealing and strong.

Top Reasons To Choose Shrink Sleeve Labels

  • Shrink sleeves are perfect for manufacturers looking to wrap their product containers in a three hundred and sixty degree labeling option. The entire product is covered in labeling meaning that no matter how the product is held the consumer is getting information on your product.  The design is genius for getting the most exposure for your money.  It won’t matter how your product is displayed your shrink sleeve label will allow consumers to know it is from the manufacturers brand of products.
  • Some products are packaged in odd shaped containers making them difficult to properly label. An ill-fitting label will leave consumers with the perception of a low quality product.  Shrink sleeves are a high quality option in labels that fit even the oddest container.  Take odd shaped containers and enhance them with a label designed to boost the benefits of the products shape.
  • Shrink sleeve are easily the best option in labeling if manufacturers are looking for the ability to add a tamper proof seal. A seal is added to shrink sleeve labels to secure products.  This helps to prevent the product from being accessed prior to purchase without breaking the seal.  This makes it impossible to tamper with a product without it being noticed.
  • Another major benefit of using shrink sleeves in product labeling is how well it holds up during transit. This type of labeling over other options is resistant to scuffing, rips and outside damage.  In shrink sleeve labeling the graphics and print is mirrored meaning that the label is actually printed on the inside, the side that sits against the product package.  This allows the label to be handled without worry of discoloration or tarnishing especially during the shipment and unloading phases of the logistics process.

In order for shrinks sleeves to be applied they must be heated then allowed to melt perfectly into the shape of the container.  This process of application is what allows shrink sleeve labels to conform perfectly to most any container size, shape or material.

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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