Livingston Reporting - page 220

How To Determine If It Is Time To Plaster Your Residential Gunite Swimming Pool

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is believed that commercial pools should be plastered about every ten years however with residential pools the answer isn’t as clear.  In this installment on pool plastering we will look at several signs that are dead giveaways that the pool needs to be plastered.  The pools plaster protects both the look and structural elements.  Watch for the signs below to know when it is time to call in pool plaster professionals.

Over a period of time, no matter how balanced the chemicals in your pool are the minerals in the water will stain the plaster and change the look of the original plaster.  As this occurs it becomes more and more evident that the plaster needs to be replaced.

Most in-ground pools are constructed out of Gunite, a concrete substance that is used to create the base of the pool.  The plaster is used on top of the Gunite and acts as a waterproof protective barrier that offers an aesthetic appeal as well.  When the Gunite begins to show through the plaster this is another sure sign it is time to call in the pool plastering professionals.

If you notice that your feet are being torn up by the bottom of the pool and that swimming in the pool is becoming rougher and rougher to the touch it is a good sign the plaster needs updating.  Bathing suits will start to snag on jagged plaster edges when the plaster starts to wear down.  This may not be visible to the naked eye.  If you start to feel or see rough patches on the pools plaster it is time to plaster your pool.  Cracks, pits or patchy spots are all common when plaster has aged and is in need of replacement.

Plastering your residential Gunite swimming pools costs between three and five dollars depending on a number of factors including: the contractors, the size of the pool, the climate, and the area in which you reside.  An average pool runs between four and five thousand dollars to plaster.

If you decide that this is going to be the year you plaster your pool it is best to get a call into the pool plastering company early in the season.  Depending on where you live the season in which you can enjoy your pool can be short.  If this is your situation you will want to have the pool plastered before opening it for the season to avoid any usage downtime.  Contact a reputable pool plastering company to come out and quote your project.  After you have several quotes and have done substantial research on each of the local pool plastering companies it will be time to schedule an appointment to have your pool plastered.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

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Proper Maintenance Tips For Electronic Driveway Gates

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is without a doubt that one of the greatest deterrents of crime is the addition of an automatic driveway gate.  They are put in place to not only secure homes but also businesses.  Not only do they help to secure the space they do so in a convenient, practical, attractive and affordable manner.  Most gates are simple to operate and demand very little maintenance.  Below you will find the simple maintenance tips to maintain your electronic driveway entry gate.

First and foremost it is important to keep your automatic gate clean.  Occasionally you will find that it is important to was and wax the exterior of the gate to keep it looking as beautiful as the day it was installed.  This is especially important for fences that are glossy.  Don’t wait until the fence becomes tarnished, discolored or begins to flake.  At that point the gate will need the paint removed, the fence sandblasted and the fence repainted.  Thoroughly cleaning the fence every six months will keep the fence looking beautiful.

It is important to spray silicon spray on the inner tube that passes through the arm of the opener.  Silicon spray doesn’t gather dirt and grime.  The silicon in fact allows the inner seal to remain flexible.  This is especially important in cold climate environments as it helps to get rid of moisture that is trapped inside the arm of the opener and helps to keep it from freezing up.

Maintenance on the hinges of an automatic driveway gate is important and demand more attention than the gate itself.  Regular greasing of the gates hinges is crucial as it helps to protect the tension and durability of the gate.  Be sure to look for small cracks in the hinges as small cracks can create a large expense in a homeowner’s pocket book.

When you have a slide gate installed you will want to take time to grease the drive chain on the opener regularly.  The chain needs to remain flexible to avoid becoming jagged in order to remain performing as it is intended.  It is best to use heavy grease over a spray when applying lubricant to this area of the gate.  The most appropriate lubrication for a gate drive chain is white lithium grease.

If you purchase a quality electronic entry gate and take the time to maintain it properly it will last you a lifetime.  Take into consideration the quality of the gate you can purchase to stay within your allotted budget.  It is best to postpone the purchase if you find this is a challenge.  The higher quality the entrance gate, gate operator, and control system the longer you can expect the lifespan of the fence to be especially if you take the necessary steps to maintain it.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic driveway gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

 

SAC Fence

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Differences In Elder Law and Estate Planning

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There is a common misconception about elder law and estate planning.  Many people think that these two concepts only apply to individuals with wealth during the later part of their lives.  However, this is the furthest thing from the truth.  Everyone has an estate.  Elder law is actually an area of law that affects everyone at any age that plans on growing old.

There are many questions that people wonder about as they grow old including:

  • If I can’t make decisions for myself anymore what will happen?
  • Who will make decisions for me if I am no longer able to?
  • Do I qualify for any special benefits?
  • How will I go about making arrangements for special financial obligations?
  • What will happen with my belongings?
  • As I grow old where will I live and how will I continue to pay for it?

These questions and more are answered when you meet with an elder law attorney.  Meeting with an attorney that specializes in elder law is an incredibly proactive step to take.  It is a step that everyone should take but especially those with health and medical concerns.  Elder law goes well beyond estate planning because it addresses your quality of life, housing arrangements, financial and medical concerns.

Estate planning is beneficial for everyone because it affects people from all sectors of life, not just the wealthy.  No one is protected against the conflict that can arise in a family after the death of a loved one; with a detailed estate plan in place though a lot of family disagreements can be avoided.  Everything and anything that an individual possesses can be part of an estate plan including: cars, homes, bank accounts, life insurance, furnishings and personal property.  Estate planning should be done early in life and updated on a regular basis.

An estate planning attorney helps individuals think ahead to prepare for and make arrangements while they are still living.  It is in place to minimize taxes, probate expenses and create less family drama upon an individual’s passing.  If an estate plan is not in place the estate is distributed based on the rules of the state and the court.  Without a plan in place probate laws state how the distribution of the estate will play out.  What this could mean is that your spouse, children and other relatives may end up not provided for in the manner that you would have chosen.

An estate planning attorney can assist with drawing up wills, trust, designating beneficiaries, power of attorneys, gifting, special financial arrangements and insurance needs.  Estate planning attorneys help individuals with a variety of concerns including:

  • Making sure that your instructions are carried out as you wish.
  • Helping to minimize the amount paid in taxes, court fees and miscellaneous expenses.
  • Helping detail your heath care directive and ensure that your instructions are followed if you should become disabled.
  • Taking care of naming individuals as guardians and ensuring the inheritance will be managed by the correct individual.
  • Providing detailed instruction for special needs family members.
  • Determining what insurance is needed including life, disability and long term care.
  • Ensuring that wishes with business endeavors that are in place are carried out accordingly including transfers of ownership.

An elder law attorney encompasses a very broad spectrum of the law.  Elder law lawyers can assist clients with all the functions of estate planning and more.  As individuals live longer more planning is needed to ensure that not only are their families cared for but that they are as well.  Thoughtful planning and budgeting take place to ensure that the twists and turns of life are all met.  Elder law attorneys take care of special needs including:

  • Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security Issues
  • Retirement benefits
  • Long term care and housing needs including financing
  • Issues with age discrimination
  • Elder abuse and neglect issues
  • Disability planning
  • Veterans planning
  • Issues with insurance
  • End of life decisions

The Law Office of Sean J. Nichols is dedicated to assisting clients throughout legal issues that come with aging including: elder law, estate planning, probate law and more.  Check out the Law Office of Sean J. Nichols at http://www.seanjnichols.com to contact an estate attorney today.

Sean J. Nichols

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Top Reasons To Have An Estate Plan In Place

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are many reasons to make time to meet with an estate planning attorney to create an estate plan.  In this installment on estate planning we will look at the top reasons estate planning is necessary for even those with small estates.

The most common reason most individuals seek out an estate planning attorney to create a plan for their estate is to avoid their estate from sitting in probate upon their passing.  Many of us have never had to deal with probate and probate courts but the one thing we know and understand from other people’s experiences is that it is best to avoid it at all costs.  There are many horror stories to be told from the media, neighbors, friends and business associates.  It is enough to make most of us understand that it is crucial to have an estate plan in place to ensure our estate avoids probate for the sake of our families.

Another common reason that individuals seek out estate planning attorneys is to help significantly reduce their estate taxes.   Avoiding federal and state inheritance taxes is a great motivator for most people to put together an estate plan.  Even the most basic of estate plans can greatly reduce or eliminate estate taxes for married couples.  Eliminate estate taxes all together with the creation of trusts or revocable living trusts.  Attorneys specializing in estate planning are super beneficial in helping both individuals and couples decrease the amount they are required to pay in estate and inheritance tax.

After personally experiencing or seeing a loved one experience the mess of probate and poor estate planning encourages many individuals to seek out an estate planning lawyer.  Avoiding a mess for the family you are leaving behind is one of the key reasons to have in place an estate plan.  Estate plans do more than save in taxes and help avoid probate; they allow a plan to be in place that saves time, money and allows individuals to focus on what is most important at the time of your passing.  An estate plan often allows you to choose someone to be in charge if you are to become mentally incapacitated and again after your passing.  This executor is able to decide who will get what, when it will be given and how it will be distributed.  This keeps family fights to a minimum and helps to avoid costly probate and court proceedings.

Call today to schedule an appointment with a local estate planning attorney to ensure your estate is executed as you desire.

The Law Office of Sean J. Nichols is dedicated to assisting clients throughout legal issues that come with aging including: elder law, estate planning, probate law and more.  Check out the Law Office of Sean J. Nichols at http://www.seanjnichols.com to contact an estate attorney today.

Sean J. Nichols

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Proper Maintenance and Care For Medical Equipment Part Two

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In this installment on maintenance and care of medical equipment we will consider aspects in medical equipment care and maintenance including: contracting medical technicians, in house maintenance and basic and extended warranties.  It is crucial that facilities protect their investments especially when it comes to expensive medical equipment that is not easily replaced.  Medical facilities rely on medical equipment to be reliable and in proper working order as needed.  Each piece of medical equipment is responsible for accurate diagnosis.  Each technician is accountable for keeping the equipment software up to date, the equipment running properly and keeping patient care at the highest level possible.

In our last installment we discussed why both proper usage and following manufacturer’s use and maintenance guidelines were crucial in increasing the longevity of medical equipment.  In this installment we will further discuss ways to properly maintain and care for costly new and refurbished medical equipment.

In House Maintenance

It is crucial that the technicians operating medical equipment are not only trained in how to properly use the machine but also on how to perform regular, basic maintenance.  There are certain maintenance tasks that will not be able to be performed by equipment operator however basic upkeep is possible.   This will allow for immediate response if the medical equipment has a failure which reduces downtime and interruptions in patient care.  It is important to be aware of the operator’s capabilities and to know when to bring in professional help.

Comprehending Equipment Warranties

With proper care, maintenance and usage there equipment will be able to run properly for an extended period of time.  Problems can still occur and when that happens it is important to have an understanding of the products warranty.  Failure on the facilities part to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer could void the warranty.  This is why it is so important to thoroughly read and review equipment procedures and keep software regularly updated.

Hiring Professional Medical Equipment Technicians

It is vital for the longevity of the equipment in your medical facility to be regularly services by professional technicians.  As with any large piece of equipment be it in your home or business regular inspections, cleanings and maintenance are required yearly to keep functions running smoothly.  Service is offered in several different manners.  Your medical facility could have a scheduled contract with service specialists, hire third party of vendors on an as needed basis or rely on remote assistance.

The most important element that should be taken from these installments is that with regular care and maintenance provided by in house trained equipment operators and hired professional’s the longevity of  medical equipment will increase.

Radparts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts for Linear Accelerators and Radiation Oncology equipment.  We provide high quality, user friendly, low cost parts support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment.  For more information on low cost parts for repairing Linac equipment find us at http://www.radparts.com.

RadParts

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Proper Maintenance and Care For Medical Equipment Part One

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Medical equipment is costly and often requires a great deal of budgeting to purchase.  Even if the facility is able to find refurbished medical equipment it should be assumed that it will be rather pricey.  Gently used medical equipment that has gone through stringent refurbishing is one way that facilities can help cut costs.  It is important to remember that proper maintenance and regular care of refurbished medical equipment is as important if not more important than that of brand new equipment for medical use.

Proper maintenance and care is crucial for equipment that is used in the treatment of patients.  Daily use wears equipment down quickly.  In order to achieve the best results for patient care equipment must be kept functioning properly.  If equipment is not maintained facilities run the risk of constant malfunctions and breakdowns leading to a decrease in customer care which makes the practice seem unreliable.  Here are some valuable maintenance and care tips to help get your facility on the right track.

Appropriate Management

The way that facilities care and use medical equipment daily will predict how long the machine will last.  Improper use of sensitive medical equipment on regular basis will set the machine up for malfunction and failure.  Medical equipment should only be used as directed by the original manufacturer.  When medical equipment is used in a way that is not recommended there is a greater risk of harm to the patient as well as to the equipment operator.

Follow Manufacturer Procedures

When medical equipment is purchased, whether it is new or refurbished it is crucial that the manufacturer’s instructions on proper use and maintenance are included.   The manual will show a plan for regular diagnostics, updates to software and will advise facilities on hiring professional technicians to inspect and care for the equipment. It is important that the manufacturer’s guideline is followed. This will ensure that machine failure and snafus are kept to a minimum.

In the next installment on maintenance and care of medical equipment we will discuss contracting medical technicians, in house maintenance and warranties.  It is important to protect your investment.  Medical equipment is expensive and not easily replaced.  With the main objective of medical facilities being reliable, affordable patient care it is crucial that each piece of medical equipment is kept up to date, running as expected, providing proper diagnostics and keeping patient care at the highest level possible.

Radparts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts for Linear Accelerators and Radiation Oncology equipment.  We provide high quality, user friendly, low cost parts support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment.  For more information on low cost parts for repairing Linac equipment find us at http://www.radparts.com.

RadParts

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Technology Is Changing The Home Improvement Industry

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to new construction and home improvements today it is amazing how technology has changed the way professionals work.  Advances have made that make home building techniques of yesterday obsolete.  Homes are made with greener, more sustainable materials as well as being built to fit the way we live today.  Below you will find some of the most popular trends in new construction and home improvement.

As mentioned previously, homes today are built with more sustainable materials than ever before.  Home construction is all about environmental friendliness and green living.  Energy efficient elements are being included in new construction home designs all in an effort to reduce a homeowner’s footprint on the Earth.

Other ways homeowners are changing the construction industry while maintaining the environment is with the use of reclaimed wood.  The use of reclaimed wood is popular in flooring and for accents.  It is a terrific way for homeowners to combine rustic and contemporary styles in their homes.

Technology is being used throughout home design as well to account for the increase in homeowners needs to be connected through their smart phones and tablets.  This is largely developing in modern kitchens as the desire to enhance easy living for busy families on the go.  Smart appliances are also being integrated throughout homes in an effort to augment homes to match the changes in the family climate.

Open shelving throughout the home is another trend that is popular for 2016.  This includes open designs within kitchens and bathrooms as well as shelving throughout the living room and bedroom areas.  Open shelves allow homeowners the ability to showcase more aesthetically pleasing elements.

LED lighting along with the use of colors in lighting are both trends that contractors are seeing in new construction.  Colored lighting controlled by smart phones is a popular way that homeowners can control the ambience of the room without moving.  LED lights are being placed above showerheads to enhance the water stream and in kitchens above the cabinets to increase the visual appeal of the space.  These are all elements in the home improvement industry that are being altered because of advances in technology.

Trends in the home improvement industry are definitely nothing new to most professional contractors that are around today.  From shag orange carpet and plaid couches to refrigerators that allow you to shop directly from them contractors are used to being a part of ever changing trends in the way families interact within their homes.

Aspen Construction is an innovative building leader specializing in home additions, new construction, bathroom and kitchen remodeling.  For all of your home improvement needs including electrical services contact us today at http://www.aspencoinc.com/.

Aspen Construction

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Trends In Home Improvement and New Construction For 2016

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is amazing what a year does within industries like home improvement and new construction.  In an effort to keep up with changes contractors must stay ahead of the game to continue to inspire homeowners and grow their businesses.  Below are a number of trends that contractors are using to inspire homeowners projects for home improvements in 2016.

Out with the wallpaper of the nineties and shag carpet of the eighties and in with the bold accented walls.  The trend for 2016 is the use of bold accent walls; the use of colors and unique materials to accent one or two of the walls in a space is what is popular today.  Popular materials that homeowners are using include reclaimed barn wood, metal tiles, stone and combinations of natural, rustic materials and metals.  Fireplaces are also in on this trend.  Full wall fireplace surrounds are a must in new construction to allow for a central focal point.

Every year there are new colors that hit the market and are instant hits.  This year reports of pale pink and purple-blue are popular like the colored pegs in the popular board game Life.   As always white continues to be a staple and popular in 2016 as an accent color as well as for trim throughout the home.

Another trend that is prevalent in home renovations is open layouts verse closed up floor plans.  In primary locations such as the kitchen and living room are being updated.  Instead of being enclosed separate spaces contractors are creating open layouts that work to cohesion to one general space.  Contractors are making better use of the space homeowners have and are safely opening up walls and allowing for more functional joint spaces.

A trend in home improvement that is changing because of the way we are changing as a society is the addition of space in our own homes that is specifically designed for our aging parents.  More and more society is walking away from the idea of placing elderly parents into long term care facilities and instead allowing them to move in.  Project contractors are seeing range from adding wheelchair accessibility and small safety upgrades to adding additional space onto the home in the form of a suite.

Homeowners are always seeking renovations that will return money on their initial outlay in the form of increased equity in the home.  The most valuable renovations to homeowners will forever be within kitchens and bathrooms.  It is important in any improvement that you take into consideration the neighborhood that you live in.  Don’t over upgrade your home as this will only work to make your house seem overpriced to the market.  If your neighbors all have kitchens with laminate flooring and counter tops it is likely that more sophisticated upgrades will price your home over the subdivision average.

The main aspect of any home improvement project is to keep up with the ever changing trends while staying true to your own style.

Aspen Construction is an innovative building leader specializing in home additions, new construction, bathroom and kitchen remodeling.  For all of your home improvement needs including electrical services contact us today at http://www.aspencoinc.com/.

Aspen Construction

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Considerations In Financing Your New Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Before you purchase your first home and finance your very first mortgage there are a few things to consider.  Consider the following as you embark on your new life journey into homeownership.
Before you hire a realtor or start looking at homes it is important to meet with a mortgage broker.  Once you have met with a mortgage officer you can determine if you have credit problems that need to be solved prior to looking for a home.  This meeting will also allow you to know exactly how much you can afford to spend on a house and an estimate of your monthly payment.
It is also important to pay off as much debt as you can before embarking into the great wide open of homeownership.  It is important to get a grip on your income to debt ratio.  Take into account all of the money that is coming in and the debts that you have going out.  Make sure to consider all forms of income and debt.  If the monthly house payment is more than forty three percent it is unlikely to get a mortgage.  It is best to keep the monthly payment to thirty percent of your monthly income.  The lower your debt to income ratio the more likely you will be approved for a mortgage and a lower interest rate then borrowers with a higher debt to income ratio.
It is important to get into good credit habits before you purchase a home.  If you find that you are constantly missing payments on student loans or constantly paying bills late it will lower your credit score and hurt your chances at obtaining a home loan.  When bills end up going into collections it can take months to clear up the mess.
Before you look into finding your first home take time to look into consolidating student loans.  Refinancing student loans can decrease the monthly payment.  It may make sense to increase the length of time you pay on your student loans in order to buy a home sooner.
It is important to present work history that shows consistency.  If you have just graduated from college it may be best to take some time and establish yourself in your career before you look into purchasing a home.   After you establish a pattern of working for two or more years you will look more appealing to home loan lenders.
When you apply for your first mortgage be prepared to document your finances.  You will need to have copies of the past two years tax returns, bank statements, brokerage account documentation and documents that verify all sources of money that you have coming in.  Mortgage brokers will verify employment, income and debt.   This will occur at the beginning of the home loan process as well as a few days before the closing.
While you are applying for a home loan avoid putting anything on credit or applying for any new credit.  Don’t start buying things for a new home until you have the home.  Once the process begins don’t spend a dime on anything you don’t have to.  Avoid adding to your debt as any added expenses can jeopardize the process.
Meet with a mortgage broker that is willing to shop around for lenders that are offering the best rates, loan options and more.  Work with brokers that present you with all of your options including loans where you pay fees upfront in the form of points, interest rates, no closing costs and more.
Before you buy a home or consider meeting with a mortgage broker be sure you have enough cash on hand to cover all of your costs.  You will want to have enough money to cover the fees charged by the lender and closing agent as well as the expense of having the home inspected, appraised and surveyed.  It is also important to note that most lenders require the first years home insurance and property taxes to be paid up front.
As a first time home buyer you may also consider looking into an FHA mortgage.  When looking into this type of loan option it is important to understand that not only will you have to qualify so will the home.  The house will need to meet certain criteria to get approved for a FHA mortgage as well.
It is important to be open throughout the process of getting a mortgage and buying a home.  The process is not simple and will have bumps along the road but the journey will be well worth it when you walk through that open door into your brand new home.
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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Tips For First Time Home Buyers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

As a first time home buyer you often don’t have any idea what to expect.  In this installment we will establish steps to take in order to determine if you are ready to take the plunge into home ownership.
Consider the area that you are looking at buying.  Check out the selling price of comparable homes in the area.  You can do this by looking at the MLS listings in the area or on a number of online real estate websites.
Find an online mortgage calculator to determine your monthly mortgage payments.  Many realtors have bankrate home loan calculators on their sites in order to allow clients to estimate the payment they can expect monthly on various mortgage amounts.
After you have determined an approximate monthly mortgage payment it is important to look into the total monthly costs to operate the home including taxes and insurance.  In some situations homeowners have found that the money going into escrow can often double the monthly payment amount.
Determine how much your mortgage lender requires in closing costs.  The upfront expenses of the home loan should never be overlooked.  Closing costs can include a variety of fees including: origination fees, title fees, settlement fees, taxes, homeowner association fees and other prepaid expenses.
Consider your budget and consider how the house fits into the puzzle.  Most lenders recommend that homebuyers spend no more than twenty eight percent of their take home income on the cost of housing.  When buyers move upwards to thirty percent they take a chance on being house poor.  Being house poor means that you no longer have extra funds to spend on anything other than your home.  This is a risky spot to be in and should not be considered a way of life for the long term.
Talk to a local realtor to discuss the climate of real estate within the area that you are interested.  Do they believe that the area and housing prices will continue to increase, will the decrease or will they stabilize?  There is no guarantees on the housing market but the trends of the past can help indicate future behavior.
Consider the larger picture of homeownership.  Buying a home is a super investment and great way to build wealth.  First time homebuyers need to understand that maintaining this investment can be not only be intensive labor wise but also on your budget.  It is important to remember that no longer can expenses be passed off to the landlord.  When something breaks down it is yours and yours alone to fix.
These are just a few of the things for first time homebuyers to look at before they buy a home.
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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