Livingston Reporting - page 227

The Difference Between Reconditioned and Refurbished

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

What is the difference between buying factory reconditioned and factory refurbished?  Each year there are millions of products that are returned to manufacturers each year.  Sometimes it is because they have been leased to the consumer and the lease is up or others because they aren’t functioning properly.  This determines how a manufacturer can market a product for resale and the condition the product is in when the consumer purchase it.

Products are often l eased by consumers in order to keep up to date on needed technology without the exorbitant expense of purchasing the product outright.  When an item is returned to the manufacturer the product is often reconditioned by replacing worn components, testing the product and putting it out for sale.  The process of reconditioning has less to do with actually repairing it than it does with replacing parts that commonly need updating and putting it back out to be sold.

Two categories of companies can actually sell reconditioned equipment: factory authorized and reseller recondition.  When the item is reconditioned by the factory itself or by a certified outsource firm to company resale standards it is considered factory authorized.  When an item is purchased from the original company and reconditions in house but is not certified by the original manufacturer the item is considered to be in reseller recondition.

When an item is returned because of a defect to the surface or functionality and refurbished it is more about repairing the damage then replacing parts that are worn out.  When a return is made the company takes the time to find what the problem with the item is, repairs it, replace parts needed to be replaced and labels it as refurbished.  Being certified is again the difference between being labeled factory refurbished or in-house refurbished.

What All Of This Means To Buyers

Whether you are purchasing a reconditioned or refurbished component, part, piece of equipment or electronic you want to be educated.  The more you know the easier it will be for you to compare new vs reconditioned products and the price being charged.  Also educate yourself on what you should expect out of the product.

Be sure to read the entire listing before you purchase a reconditioned or refurbished component.   Most of these products have been through a stringent testing product before they can be listed for sale.  Be sure that the listing makes mention of this.

Check out seller’s feedback.  Previous buyers will give you a sense of how the company offer support to their customers.  Yes, negative feedback happens but look more into how they handle issues when they arise.  Are emails answered, problems solved and tech support given when needed?

When items are refurbished or reconditioned by a factory or certified outsourcer they usually come with a warranty or guarantee.  Check to make sure the warranty offers you enough time to actually use and test the product to determine if it is working for you as stated.  The usual warranty for reconditioned components is around fifteen to thirty days.

If looking to save money while getting similar quality that would be expected out of new equipment or replacement component parts buy reconditioned or refurbished.

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

, , , , , , , , ,

The Difference Between Used and Refurbished

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

One way to save a lot of money is to seek out refurbished tech items, electronics and electrical components when looking into making purchases.  It is important to remember that there is a difference between buying a used product and one that is refurbished.  Both can save you a lot of money however there are actually numerous differences that make refurbished better than used.

One of the first differences between used and refurbished items is the warranty.  All components that have gone through the refurbishing process come with a limited warranty of some kind.  When purchasing a used item however, it is rare for the item to be sold with any type of warranty.  Used items are usually bought and sold as is.

When it comes to the physical condition between used and refurbished items there is also a huge difference.  Refurbished items, especially electrical components, are supposed to look as close to the original as possible.  When something is refurbished it has been taken apart, cleaned, parts replaced and put back together in like new condition whereas used items are sold as is and are potentially worn.

Vendors rarely sell used items.  If you are purchasing an item from an OEM it is most often a true refurbished product. They will offer a full warranty on the item as if it was knew because essentially the process of refurbishing is making a like new product.  Used items will often be sold through third party vendors who label them as refurbished.  An item is unlikely to be a true refurbished product if being sold without a warranty or the description states the item is being sold as is.

When a product is refurbished or sold through an OEM is will come with customer service support.  When you purchase a used item you are not guaranteed to have any support services.  It is bought as is, buyer beware.  There are more guarantees when it comes to purchasing components that are refurbished.

If you are looking for the best bang for your buck, especially when purchasing electrical components for manufacturing equipment or for your home then the way to go is refurbished.  Another good thing about buying refurbished components is that you can usually find components for older machinery often even the most obsolete of machines.  Where new components are no longer available and used components would be in like shape to what you are replacing, refurbishing gives you a like new way to keep your machines running properly.

J & P Electrical Company

, , , , , , , , ,

Buying A Home With A Less Than Stellar Credit Rating

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Are you starting to consider buying a home?  If so you have probably heard how important your credit score is in obtaining a mortgage.  It is possible that you may have been previously turned down for a home loan because of your poor credit.  Or that you have pulled your credit report to realize that your credit rating is far worse then you thought it was.  Whatever the case may don’t give up on buying a home just yet.  Even with a credit score that is too low for a conventional thirty year mortgage there are numerous options you can look into for financing a home.  You might be surprised by what a mortgage broker can do to help your situation.

First off be aware what lenders are looking for when lending money to individuals for a conventional mortgage.  A general rule of thumb is that a borrower should consider saving at least twenty percent of homes price for a down payment and a FICO score of about six hundred fifty to receive a conventional mortgage with a low interest rate.

There are a host of things that lenders look at when deciding whether or not a borrower is a worthy risk.  One of the major factors, as previously discussed is a person’s credit score.  Another element that borrowers use is the amount that borrowers have for a down payment.  It is possible to offset a lower credit score with a higher down payment.  Lenders are apt to believe that you are less of a risk the more equity that is invested into the home.  Your personal interest in the home is greater and therefore lenders believe you are a better risk.

If you have a less than perfect credit score and a small down payment don’t count yourself out of the mortgage game yet.  Talk with a mortgage broker about various non-conventional loan options.  Some options include: FHA loans, VA loans or U.S. Department of Agriculture loans are all options with less stringent guidelines then conventional mortgages.

If none of these options pan out consider working on getting your credit score up, saving money and working towards financing a mortgage in two to three years when your financial situation has recovered.  There are many ways to work towards a better credit score including:

  • Take care of correcting errors in your existing credit report especially with collection agencies and late payments.
  • Make payments on time all the time.
  • Pay down the balances on revolving credit cards to decrease your debt to income ratio.
  • Give yourself some time to build your savings.

Work with a mortgage broker to discuss options that are available today.

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

, , , , , , , , ,

The Difference Between Mortgage Brokers and Banks

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Are you looking into financing the purchase of a new home?  You may be overwhelmed at the possibilities that exist within the mortgage industry.  There are numerous options and channels that can be used to obtain a mortgage.  In this article we will focus on two specific areas, mortgage brokers versus banks.

Mortgage brokers work as a middle man between lenders and borrowers.  The broker works to secure several best case scenario’s for borrowers to choose from a variety of lenders.    A borrower is allowed to compare and contrast the options that are available, using the knowledge and assistance of a mortgage broker.  Mortgage brokers account for more than ten percent of the mortgage financing on all home loan originations.     When the real estate market was in full bloom mortgage brokers peaked, accounting for thirty percent of loan beginnings.

Borrowers working with a bank are in more of a retail situation.  A bank or financial lending institution states what their best available offer is, given the borrowers situation and they can either choose to accept the offer or continuing searching competitors for a better offer.

As with all financial transactions there are positives and negatives of both channels of obtaining financing for your mortgage.  Some situations leave you with no alternative but to choose one over the other.  If you are a borrower working with a poor credit or a loan situation that is a bit trickier than what is normal a mortgage broker may be your only option to finding a loan that works for you.

Most homeowners find themselves turning to their bank or financial institution when they find they are in need of a mortgage or begin looking into refinancing options.  However, when they have trouble qualifying for a loan through their own bank many turn to mortgage brokers.  Don’t assume that rates and loan options won’t be as competitive when using a mortgage broker over a bank.  Many times options that brokers find for borrowers are as competitive as those from a bank.  Be sure to work with a broker that is not taking abundance off the top before selling borrowers the loan.  In actuality, wholesale mortgage rates can often be cheaper than what borrowers can find at local banks.

Bank Positives

  • Relationship building and the connection between community and your finances
  • Adding to an existing financial profile
  • Personal relationship with the lender

Broker Positives:

  • Brokers do all the leg work
  • Brokers compare rates from numerous banks and lenders all at one time
  • More loan options available
  • Can help with poor or tricky credit situations

Bank Negatives:

  • More conservative loan options
  • Lengthy and bureaucratic process
  • Incompetence because of high turn over

Mortgage Negatives:

  • May overcharge for services
  • Access to select bank programs
  • Lack of control for the borrower

Mortgage brokers are a great option for borrowers who are looking to compare multiple options all at one time without spending day in and day out searching around for available options.  Borrowers with excellent credit and a solid relationship with their banks may find that working with their bank to locate a mortgage is better for them.

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

, , , , , , , , ,

Don’t Install That New Roof Yourself Instead Hire A Roofing Contractor

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Let’s face it there are certain jobs that homeowners should feel confident about tackling on their own and others that should be left to the professionals.  New roof installation is one of those home improvements that even the most experienced DIY homeowner shouldn’t tackle on their own.  No matter how many YouTube videos you watch or books you read there are more benefits to hiring a professional then trying to do it yourself.

Consider the benefits you receive when you hire a professional roofing contractor:

  • Experience
  • Safety
  • Time

Let’s look into each one of these separately to fully understand why hiring a roofing contractor is better than installing or repairing a roof on your own.

Experience: Most homeowners don’t specialize in roof installation or roof repair.  Most of us don’t have the expertise it takes to properly install a new roof.  Roofing contractors are like all other professionals, they spend hour upon hour on roofs perfecting their techniques.  In fact many professional roofers have spent a majority of their time before starting their own business working under roofing contractors with years of experience.  Contractors, no matter what their specialty, are required to become licensed to work in their area of expertise.

Roofing contractors are also knowledgeable on the materials it will take to cover a variety of different roofs.  Whereas many do it yourselfers tend to overestimate or underestimate just how much they will need in materials.  It won’t matter how much preplanning or research that is done installing a new roof on your home for the first time is an experiment.  Do you want that for your home?

Safety:   When working on a ladder or roof there is always a certain aspect of risk involved.  A number of accidents occur each year that are related to well meaning DIY homeowners that have fallen off their roofs resulting in injury or death. Consider the last time you took on a new skill.  It is almost guaranteed that the all of your concentration went into completing the task at hand verse your surroundings.  In certain situations this may be just fine but in roofing it could be incredibly dangerous.

Professional roofing contractors have the tools to get the job done while having the tools to keep them safe doing it.  Changes occur within every specialty in construction, the same is true of roofing.  Let the professionals who are skilled in their job, using their tools and techniques take on the job of replacing or repairing your homes shingle roof.  It will keep you safe on the ground where you belong.

Time: Most homeowners don’t have the time it takes to spend replacing their homes roof.  A full crew of skilled contractors can take up to a week to strip off old roofing shingles, replace worn out roofing and install the new roofing.  A lot of things factor into this: the weather, the number of crew members and the type of roofing material being applied.  The time you estimate that it will take you to complete your roof will be added to if the weather doesn’t cooperate, more materials are needed or any other number of factors.

Before you commit all of your free time to installing a new roof to your home really consider all of the benefits found with hiring a professional roofing contractor to do it for you.

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

, , , , , , , ,

Rid Your Roof Of Stains

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Let’s face it shingle roofing, especially that installed on homes in the northern, humid states will develop some sort of unsightly dark staining or streaking from an accumulation of dirt, defective shingling, mold growth, mildew or the most common culprit algae.  Algae are easily spread because it is spread via airborne spores.  Little harm is actually done to roofing from algae however the stains are unsightly and decrease the value of your home.

There is a method that can be used to avoid algae stains or various inexpensive techniques to clean them from roofing once they have occurred.   Metal flashing can be utilized to prevent algae growth from occurring.  This occurs because the copper and zinc coating on the galvanized sheet metal is toxic to algae.  When it rains small amounts of metal get washed down the roof preventing the algae from growing.

Another way to prevent algae from growing on shingles is by installing shingling that is resistant to the growth of algae.  Many roofing material manufacturers have started offering shingles that have copper granules mixed into their product.  This development in roofing technology is something that homeowners should request when meeting with their new roof contractor.

Most important though, what do homeowners with algae growth already present on the roof do to clean their roofs?  As suggested with any home improvement project requiring a ladder or being up on the roof the first suggestion is to hire a professional roofer.  Professionals have the knowledge, time and tools available to remove the algae from your roof in a safe manner.

When using chemical cleaners to remove the built up algae from shingling the following items come in handy:

Roof Cleaner

Pump Sprayer

Garden Hose

Hose Nozzle

Safety Glasses

Rubber Gloves

Ladder

If you do decide to clean the algae off of your roof on your own it is important to take safety precautions to ensure your safety.  Shingles that are wet even more dangerous so make sure to wear slip resistance footwear and a safety harness.  Be sure to also protect your eyes and skin when working with chemicals.  Another thing to consider is the vegetation beneath to avoid damage to landscaping.  Try to pick a cloudy day to work on to prevent the cleaner from evaporating before it has time to set into the shingle.

The basic recipe for the cleaning solutions is a quart of bleach, a gallon of water and a quarter cup of TSP.  Pour the ingredients together and transfer the solution into a sprayer.  After applying the cleaning solution to the shingles rinse them using a garden hose.

If you wish to prevent the algae from growing but aren’t ready for a roof replacement with the newer algae resistant shingling try installing a small strip of copper or zinc coated sheet metal along the side of the roof ridge.  This will offer those same benefits without having to replace your home roofing.

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

, , , , , , , ,

Aluminum Fencing Is A Solid Return On Investment For Homeowners

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are a ton of options for homeowners to choose from when looking into purchasing a fence for their home and landscape.  The one material that stands out from the rest is aluminum.  Aluminum fencing is a popular choice amongst homeowners when installing a fence as it offers numerous benefits over other materials in fencing.

Aluminum fencing requires less cleaning and maintenance then most other types of fencing.  This is a major advantage of installing aluminum fences in your home or business.   The last thing busy home and business owners need is another thing to clean or maintain making aluminum fencing a top choice.

Unlike other metal fencing, aluminum is resistant to corrosion.  Aluminum retains its finish for quite some time and does not easily corrode. Once an aluminum fence is installed the finish retains it shine for a substantial period of time.  To ensure that the surface of aluminum fencing is protected it is finished with a powder coat that improves the surface of the fence making it smooth.

Another reason that aluminum is a popular choice is that it is available in a number of styles and designs to choose from.  There are also a number of colors available for homeowners to choose from to compliment the exterior of the home.  Aluminum offers a great deal of flexibility when it comes to choosing a fence.

Aluminum fencing is simple to install and is a popular choice for DIY homeowners.  Taking away the cost of installation keeps aluminum an affordable option for all budgets.  Compare the cost of materials and installation of wood fencing, wrought iron and aluminum fencing and you will see just how reasonable it is to purchase and install wholesale aluminum fencing.

A number of materials in fencing are durable and built to withstand the climate changes of homes in the north but only aluminum comes with a lifetime warranty direct from the manufacturer.  In case of an accident or minor damage to the fence it is important to note that aluminum is easy to repair.  If the damage is minor all homeowners need to do is to remove the affected part and replace it or have it repaired.  In cases of more severe damage the part of the fence that is damaged can be removed and replaced without affecting any other parts of the fence.

The above benefits make aluminum fencing a popular option.  It doesn’t hurt that aluminum is said to offer solid return on investment as well.

iFenceUSA 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 www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , ,

Aluminum Fencing For Pet Containment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are numerous options to consider when searching out fencing that is marketed for pet containment.  The main considerations when choosing pet fencing is to assure the safety and protection of your pet.  Consider the following to ensure the fencing you choose will maximize your pet’s wellbeing.

It is important to consider the type of dog that the fence is going to contain.  Different breeds require different needs out of a fence.  Does your dog require a great deal of space to run around in?  Do you have a breed that needs to be worked and will need a large fenced in space pull sleds or gather herds of animals?  Are you trying to keep an ultra intelligent variety of dog that will need to a fence that resembles a prison yard? The type of breed normally can help pet owners establish temperament ahead of time.  If the space within your yard is incompatible with the breed of dog you choose then it isn’t going to be fair to either you or the dog.

Another aspect to consider when choosing a fence g for pet containment is the size of dog.  Different size dogs have different requirement.  Smaller dogs will most likely need a style fencing that offers puppy pickets.  With aluminum fencing, puppy pickets are in additional pickets in the lower railings of fence that are put into place to keep smaller dogs from squeezing through the small picket opening of the fence.  No matter the size if you have a dog that likes to dig you will want to consider the additional option of protruding pickets that fill the gap between the ground and the fence.  Dogs that are taller generally require taller fencing or fencing without horizontal beam above the base of the fence.  This beam allows dogs the additional bit of height required to push them over the top.

Is your fence going to be in place to contain both your pet and children?  If this is the case many homeowners choose two different aluminum fencing options that complement one another to create a realistic space for both.  With this option in place your pet is free to roam about without worry of escape when children accidentally leave the fence gate open while also containing their output.

Not only is the fencing itself important but also the type of gate you choose.  For most homeowners looking to contain a pet it is crucial to have a gate that is self latching that closes automatically.  This is extremely helpful when your hands are full or your pup is a little Houdini.

iFenceUSA 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 www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , ,

Tips On Making An Aluminum Fence Purchase

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to making a purchase for your home there are many places you can turn to.  From local home improvement centers to online wholesalers there are many companies looking for your business.   When you can’t seem to find what you are looking for the best place to turn is the internet.  Online you can find a number of retailers that will ensure you are offered a quality product at an affordable place.  When you are searching for the right residential aluminum fence for your home or business and are looking for a variety of options an online aluminum fence wholesale reseller is your best option.

You should keep in mind the following tips when looking for a residential aluminum fence for your home and landscape.

The first order of business is measuring your yard.  Every homes landscape is unique.  With that in mind it is important to make sure you purchase the right fence for your space.  When taking measurements for your landscape take into consideration not only the length and width of the yard but also the various slopes found within your space.  Whether you have a large sloping landscape or several small slopes it is important that you take measurements with that in mind. Most online aluminum fence suppliers will offer a number of options for rackable aluminum fencing options.

Companies looking for your business will do whatever it takes to gain your trust and secure you as a client.  One of the ways that online fencing companies do this is through free online aluminum fencing quotes.  Aluminum fencing doesn’t cost the same across the board.  Fencing prices are based on the style, length, height and additional extras.  So many things contribute to the final cost of aluminum fencing; be sure to ask for a free detailed quote from the online wholesale aluminum fence suppliers you are considering.  Don’t only look at the bottom line, consider everything that is included, or not for that matter, in the quote.

Aluminum fence panels are available in many lengths, heights, styles, colors, designs and with a number of accessorial options.  Be sure you understand all of the options that are available to you before choosing a fence; with aluminum fencing there is never a reason to settle.  Researching a fence for your home takes time but trust us when we say it is worth every second to find the right fence and an acceptable supplier.

With the above tips in mind it should be much simpler for you to find the best residential aluminum fence for your home and landscape.  Consider all of your research and you will make a smart aluminum fencing purchase.

iFenceUSA 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 www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

, , , , , , , , ,

Creating an Appealing Product Label

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems - Updated

Making your product label appeal to buyers is the goal for all product manufacturers.  There are numerous ways that graphic designers work with custom label manufacturers to ensure that your product will stand out above the completion.  Below we will discuss different techniques that product label designers can use to enhance products to gain consumer interest.

A product that is sold or stocked within large outer containers can easily show the quality of their product by using a large colored photo of the interior product on the exterior label.  This method is commonly used in hardware stores where many smaller parts are encompassed within a larger box.  Think of plumbing materials, electrical supplies, furniture knobs and numerous accessorial pieces.

Another method that is popular is creating a label that can be customized to the buyer.  This is an extremely popular labeling technique especially in smaller boutiques.  If your products label can make your customer feel unique or like one of a kind it helps them to connect. Some smaller manufacturers have great success with in-house label printing.

Another popular option in labeling right now is integrating web marketing into your label.  When creating a label include a QR code, a SMS text message code or social media links that consumers can use to get more information about your product or contests sponsored by your brand.  Web-based marketing is an increasingly popular technique that brings an end user into engaging with your brand and product.

Using vibrant colors in labeling helps to catch the consumer’s eye and bring them closer to making a purchase.  Consider your product, picture the colors that best represent your end goal and work them into your label.  Every color invokes a different feeling in consumers consider this when designing your label.  For instance, greens and browns give off an environmentally friendly vibe while blue gives off a sense of authority.

Another option that helps to make your label stand out is designing labels specific to seasonal changes.  Consumers are attracted to items that are specific to what is currently happening.  Consider the products you are most apt to purchase around Halloween or Christmas.  What are these product labels most often adorned with?  Yep, themes of the holiday or color that is specific to that period of time.

When creating a label you can also differentiate it from the competition with the type of material you choose.  Cut and stack paper labels are created from a different material then shrink sleeves.  Consider what the completion is doing and contemplate doing something different to make your product’s label stand out.

Let the tips above serve as a guide when creating a custom product label that will have customers lining up to purchase it!

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

, , , , , , , , ,