Livingston Reporting - page 252

Choosing a Positive Divorce For Your Children’s’ Sake

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

One of the biggest concerns that most couples have when they are considering divorce is the impact it will have on their children.  How will the children react to living with one parent over the other?  Will they understand that your divorce will actually lead to a happier and healthier life for them?  Divorce brings with it massive changes.    Your children will learn though your example.  If you choose to make the change with their well being in mind they will continue to thrive.

Children have a different perception of divorce depending on their age, gender and history with stress.  Without proper guidance even the most well adjusted, stable, resilient child can end up with emotional problems and less than desirable long term affects.  This does not have to be inevitable.  With parents who ensure that this new chapter in life is embraces children can come out of the divorce process rather unscathed.

One way that this can happen is if both parties agree to joint custody and co-parenting.  There are a number of challenges that come along with parenting during and after a divorce but if you work together they lessen dramatically.  You make have conflicts with your ex that makes this challenging.  Communicating cordially can be difficult.  There is a reason that you have decided to no longer be married.  This however should not impact the decisions that need to be made on behalf of your children.

Make choices together that benefit your children.  When co-parenting you are both spending equal amounts of time with your children.  Communicating with your ex frequently is part of making this a successful arrangement.  Co-parenting should help allow your children’s lives to remain as consistent as they can.  One of the goals with co-parenting is allowing your children to live normally between two households.  It allows children of divorce the luxury of not having to pack up a suitcase every other weekend to visit with their other parent.

Having children was a choice you made together as is every decision that is made surrounding their lives.  Just because you choose to no longer live as one family unit does not mean that your partner is not allowed to weigh in on the decisions that affect them.  Co-parenting allows you the opportunity to both remain in control of each and every aspects of parenting.  You will need to work together on a common set of rules that need to be abided by no matter which home they are in.  The transitions from one home to the other should be made without any noticeable difference to avoid any undue impact on your children.

When it comes to bigger issues or to a disagreement on how to approach an issue with the children you will be challenged.  Don’t go into battle with your ex.  This is not helpful to the end goal and will only put your children in the middle.  Depending on what the issue is will depend on how it is handled.  You can consult with a mediator, schedule time for a consultation with a co-parenting specialist or agree to disagree but support the end decision.

Consulting with a co-parenting specialist is one way in which many divorce parents make the arrangement work well.  Not every detail is one that needs to be debated.  Some issues can be resolved by doing what works well at one house verse the other.  While other issues need to be addressed the same no matter where the children are at any given moment.  A consultant specializing in the co-parenting arrangement can work with you to come up with a parenting plan that works under both roofs.  This arrangement allows for the adverse affects of divorce on your children to be as minimal as any change of this magnitude can be.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce.  For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Longton Law

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Choosing A Healthy Divorce

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Is there such thing as a healthy divorce?  Does working with one attorney over another make a difference in the health of your relationships once your divorce is finalized?  Believe it or not the attorney you choose to help you throughout your divorce really does change the outcome of your relationships with your ex and your children.  Divorce is difficult.  It is a time that catches you at anything but your best; that is one of the main reasons you need to find an attorney to compliment your end goals and desires.  A divorce attorney that understands this will help make the process and end result easier to handle.

The first thing to understand is that your divorce is not a battle.  Take the right approach from the start.  Find a family law attorney that has this same mindset.  Find an attorney that also doesn’t believe that divorce must be a combat situation.  If you or your attorney go into the process concerned only with winning your divorce turns into a situation that is hurtful, angry and heated.  This is especially harmful if children are involved.  It is important that you work together with your ex.  This will lead to a relationship after divorce that is cohesive and benefits the emotional well being of both you and your children.

There will be many things that will need to be divided up within your divorce.  Consider joint assets for what they are and nothing more.  Yes, the blanket that covered your couch may be super comfy but is it really worth fighting for?  If your ex is really attached to a piece don’t fight them for it.  It is more important that the division of assets is fair.  If you choose to be cooperative throughout the process you will find this may entice your ex to do the same.  Who cares if in the end you need to buy new dishes or sheets?

It may be difficult to begin talking with your spouse about dividing your joint assets. One way to help ease this conversation is by starting out with a written list.  Divide the joint assets up into three categories: things you really want, things you would like and things that don’t really matter.  Compare the list you have created with the list your ex has come up with.  What this accomplishes is a starting point.  You may compare lists and realize that the things you both value are completely different and therefore easier to split.  It also allows for a bit of negotiation as you may choose to give up some of those things that you would like in favor of more important pieces that you really want.  You will find this true of your ex as well.  Your divorce attorneys can set up a time for mediation where this can be discussed in a non-hostile manner.

It is important that you seek legal advice from an attorney that also believes in ending your marriage in a healthy manner.  Having an attorney that helps you remain level headed throughout the divorce process will only help to facilitate a healthy end to your marriage and start to your new life.

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

Longton Law

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Freight Pricing Simplified

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Freight pricing is a bit confusing especially when it comes to less than truckload companies. LTL companies use a variety of methods to determine the price to charge for your shipment. The most common way this is done is using freight class. Rules and guidelines are in place for the trucking industry to use to determine the classification of shipments. This directly affects how much you pay to ship an item.

Not only does the classification on your shipment affect how much you pay so does the shipments density. Density is calculated by determining how many pounds per cubic foot your shipment is. This allows the carrier to figure out how many other shipments can also be put on the truck. Less than truckload companies load several LTL shipments onto one truck to make a full trailer. The lower the classification of your shipment the less it will cost to ship.

Another factor that helps determine what you are charged is the items likelihood to be damaged. Fragile items or items with a lot of bulk fall into freight classes between one hundred twenty five to five hundred and account for most expensive shipments. Your service provider is knowledgeable in these differences and will assist you in figuring out the freight class charge of your shipments.

Some brokers are granted “Freight All Kinds” pricing with certain carriers that they contract with for LTL shipping. This means that higher classed items are shipped at lower cost classification. The only way an individual shipper can benefit from this is to ship though a broker such as those you can find online. Trucking companies do not offer direct discounts to private individuals.

Shipping a full truckload is usually calculated by mileage. The company figures in all the factors such as operating costs per mile as well as a markup that adds up to the amount you pay. You will realize bigger logistics savings when working with a freight broker. Brokers work with many trucking companies and can instantly shop for the best price to send your shipment. Freight brokers can always work out a better deal than you can as a private shipper. Dealing directly with shippers is more expensive by upwards of fifty to eighty five percent over what brokers can negotiate. The most private shippers can negotiate is usually five percent.

When choosing a broker to work with to handle your shipments look for other qualities other than a low price. Find a broker that only works with trucking companies that have the same customer service values as you do. Work only with freight who work with shippers that value on time shipments and consistent quality service.

Jefferson Diversified Group, LLC is a Global Logistics expert offering LTL shipping and more. Check out available rates today at http://www.detroitltl.com.

Detroit LTL

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Home Renovations Without Disturbing The Peace

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Making any home improvement is exciting.  When you fix, replace or freshen-up the spaces in your home it takes the space from dull and lived in to clean and new.  If you take on a home renovation without the right tools or incorrect information, this exhilarating time into a stressful situation for everyone involved.  In the article below you will find a variety of tips that can help turn all of your household projects into successful ones.

When you are first considering a home improvement project be sure to think about where to start.  Not every renovation needs to be taken on at one time.  Instead start with one room at a time.  Plan ahead so that you can keep your eyes open for deals.  If a kitchen contractor or flooring specialist is running a summer special then it may be time to make adjustments to your time line. Take advantage of low prices on both materials and labor when you can.  Don’t however start on one project and jump to another mid renovation just because you are looking to get a deal.  The disturbance of two home renovations at one time is a lot for your family to handle.

When you are looking to do any home improvement project that involves electricity, plumbing or your homes structure you will need to secure permits.  Many times renovations requiring a permit are better managed using a licensed contractor.  Hiring a professional often ends up saving homeowners money and time in the end.  The discount contractors receive on materials as well as the ability to do the work right the first time adds up to savings on the homeowners end.

When you are taking on something simple like a fresh coat of paint try to schedule the update over a long weekend.  This will give you additional time encase everything does not goes as planned.  If you are looking to paint rooms as quickly as possible try and stick to painting during the day when you are able to use the natural light.  Artificial light gives off shadows and can cause you to miss areas.  When painting a ceiling work from the outside in.  Start around the edges and finish in the center.  Walls should be painted from top to bottom.  If you are going to hire a painter ask to see examples of their work in person especially when looking to hire them to paint more than one room.  Technique is crucial when it comes to painting to prevent an uneven paint job.

When tackling complete room renovations such as bathroom or kitchen remodels plan your renovation out from start to finish. This is important whether you are working with a contractor or attempting it on your own.  Having a plan in place of when specific progress points are helps to prevent delays common in home improvement projects.

Another tip when remodeling is to take the clutter out of the process.  Simplify the space and don’t go overboard with too many patterns, colors or materials.  Stick with a theme and work on complimenting it in a manner that improves the space.

There is a lot to think about when it comes to sprucing up your home.  Working on one room at a time will allow you to wrap your head completely around one project.  This focus will help prevent time delays as well as improve each renovation.  When you can devote time, energy and finances on one space it allows you to take into consideration each and every detail so that the space is truly something unique and useful to your home and family.

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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Create a Fun Backyard With Aluminum Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

In the previous two articles on creating an ideal backyard we have discussed using materials in your design that are both safe and easy to maintain.  In this installment we will talk about adding in the element most important to your family, friends and pets.  If the space is not being used because it is boring the time you spent designing an environment that is safe and easy to maintain will not matter much.

In order to create a backyard that is enjoyed by everyone your must include elements that benefit each individual using the space.  If you can do this your backyard will become a desirable destination for the entire family.

The goal is to create a space that doesn’t look like a playground but offers similar attributes for young children to enjoy while trying not to alienate the adults.  A swimming pool with the addition of a hot tub and outdoor spa is a wonderful way to accomplish this.  To create a pool environment that is welcoming to both children and adults it is important to consider the environment as a whole.

Start by choosing an aluminum fence with self latching aluminum gate to enclose the space.  This adds elegance while creating a safe guard against access into the area without proper supervision. To enhance the area for adults install a covered bar area with seating away from the pool.  Surround the pool deck with chase lounges and side tables for guests to relax and read a book and enjoy some ice tea.  Add in a slide, diving board and access for a basketball hoop and volleyball net in the pool itself.  This arrangement offers lots of recreational choices for both adults and children to enjoy.

When deciding on plants for the landscaping surrounding the pool and throughout the yard consider a secret garden space.  Children love spaces to hide.  To create a inconspicuous fort create a clear space that is tucked behind some hedges.  Let your son build a fort; let your daughter create a secret world of fairies.  This hidden get away is even perfect for the family pet as a spot to hide his bones.  An area all their own is an ideal way to enlighten your child.  Once your children are grown, this secret space under the hedges is easily transformed into a romantic seating area for two.  A space like this in your yard is ideal for not only your children or pets but for you as well.

A bat house is a popular enhancement in backyard landscape designs.  You will be the coolest parent on the block if you choose to install a bat house over an ordinary birdhouse.  The boxes can be places amongst the trees inconspicuously to attract bats.  Your family and guests will enjoy seeing the bats fly around in early evening and the insect control they provide is an added benefit.

Add flowers in your landscaping that are safe, low maintenance and attract wildlife.  Colorful flowers that add fragrance to your backyard add a pop to an ordinary green landscape.  This type of flower is also useful in attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.  Your family will enjoy hours of endless enjoyment watching the different types of butterflies fly among your plants.

Another addition that children and parents enjoy is a vegetable garden.  This is a great way to teach them about nature and healthy foods while enhancing your backyard space.  Choose some items your children have never had before mixed in with some family favorites.  Growing it on their own may make it more likely to be something they eat when you serve it to them.

Creating a family friendly space that is safe, maintainable and family friendly is worth the work once you realize that your backyard is the desired location for family and friends to enjoy!

iFenceUSA offers a variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying aluminum fences shipped factory-direct from http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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The Importance of Swimming Pool Maintenance

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If you are a pool owner who ignores regular maintenance and cleaning it is possible that algae will build up.  If there is an algae build up on the pools surfaces it will become unsafe for people to use it.  If you choose not to perform regular maintenance you are also asking for future repairs and expenses that are avoidable.  If you are looking to keep your pool in tip top shape but want to avoid the extra work it is best to hire an expert in pool maintenance to open your pool, clean the pool regularly and close the pool at the end of the season.

Swimming Pool Maintenance is Crucial

All in-ground swimming pools, especially gunite pools with a plaster surface, need regular maintenance.  Even if your family is not using the pool on regular basis upkeep is necessary.  It is necessary to shock and sanitize the pool water in order to keep it safe and clean.  When this process is not done regularly the water can hold bacteria therefore making diseases more communicable.  Chlorine treatments break down the bacteria buildup.  Shocking the pool frequently, even when the pool is not being used every day will prevent illness from spreading from the water in your pool.

Not only does the water need to have chlorine added and water shocked regularly the filter and pump systems also need to be cleaned frequently as well.  As a pool owner you need to also check the performance on the pump system and make sure the water pressure is normal as well.  These pieces all work together to prevent future issues.

When we are talking about regular analysis of the chemistry of the pool water we are talking about testing the water twice a week throughout the summer.  Check the waters alkalinity and pH balance; if you need to add chemicals be sure to do so in the evening when the pool is not in use but the systems can be run to help cycle them.

At the opening and closing of the pool for the season certain maintenance should be scheduled as well.  When opening the pool in the spring and closing it in the fall you need to analyze the pools plaster.  Check the pools plaster or leaks and cracks.  Check the tile out around the pool for damage as well.  In order to keep the plaster and tiles in shape regularly clean those to prevent any algae build up.  You can do this by brushing the surfaces and vacuuming the debris that has built up.  An abundance of leaves and bugs should be cleared using a skimmer to clean the surface.  If you live in an area where this is really troublesome consider enclosing the area with a screen enclosure.

Keeping up on your pool maintenance is one of the key elements in the usability of your pool.  Without regular upkeep pool owners set themselves up for larger more time consuming, expensive repairs later on down the road.

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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Electronic Driveway Gates Make Your Entrance Unique

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Your home should be as unique as you are.  One way that this can be accomplished is by installing an electronic driveway gate.  Not only do driveway gates offer an unbeatable first impression they offer security, privacy and convenience to homeowners.  Whether you choose an aluminum, wrought iron or wooden entry gate it is an ideal way to finish off your driveway.  You can really give your home the wow factor with the installation of an entry gate.

Using a driveway gate along with a perimeter fence enhances the landscape, promotes security and offers privacy that nothing else can.  Installing flowers and trees enhance the landscape but don’t promote security or privacy.  A home alarm or video system promotes security but does nothing to enhance the landscape.  Shrubs and bushes can offer some privacy but do very little for security.  Only perimeter fencing and driveway gates offer your home the luxury of all three.

Perimeter fencing is also beneficial in keeping children and pets within a safe boundary.  This is especially important when you live in a neighborhood or on a busy street with lots of traffic.  The fence is a great barrier marking property boundaries while working to improve the aesthetics of your home.

When you choose a driveway gate for your home you can be confident that the gate you choose is known for its strength and endurance.  This is especially true when you choose aluminum and wrought iron driveway gates.  With the power coating that is applied to both wrought iron and aluminum the gates remain beautiful without much maintenance at all.  They are designed to withstand a variety of climates and can be paired with gate operators intended to do the same.  They also offer a variety of designs, styles and colors to match or compliment fencing and your home’s exterior.

Consider if a swing or slide gate is best for your driveway location.    A swing gate is the most visually appealing.  It however requires a large opening radius depending on the length of the gate.  A sliding gate eliminates that issue and eliminates that issue if space is limited.  The gate opener you choose is dependent upon nothing other than personal preference.

Both gate options can be paired with several openers.  You can choose from wired or wireless options.  You can choose a battery operated opener, one run on solar power only or on powered by a combination of batteries and solar power.  There are keypad operators with intercoms and keypads, keycard options, remote controls or even using the telephone.  Each option has features that work better for your lifestyle.

Choosing an electronic entry gate to finish your driveway is a no brainer.  The only real decisions you need to make is what material you will use, what operator you desire and which entry control system will be the most convenient for your needs.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry 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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Ways To Go About Lowering Your Monthly Mortgage Payment

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Homeowners are always optimistic when they buy a new home. They find and fall in love with a home that may be slightly out of their reach.  They are convinced that with some decent budgeting, trimming of the fat and future increases in pay the monthly payment will be affordable.  What happens next is life.  We all know what occurs then.  Unforeseen expenses come up and the monthly payment that was barely manageable before turns into a burden.  If you find yourself in this situation keep reading.  This article covers a number of ways homeowners can reduce their mortgage payment.

Property Assessment

If the market has changed in any way a property assessment can help.  If your property’s value has decreased in any way or if you think the original assessment is inaccurate you can file a petition to have it re-evaluated.  Lower evaluations can often lead to substantial savings over the lifetime of your mortgage.

PMI

If you feel that you have more than twenty percent equity into the house you can petition the lender to cancel your private mortgage insurance otherwise known as a PMI.  This could help alleviate the extra payment associated with the monthly expense of private mortgage insurance.

Loan Modification

If you are truly having difficulties a mortgage modification could be the answer to your problems.  This process can lower your balance and make your monthly payments more affordable.  This option is not without ramifications however so before you go this route contact a home loan specialist.

Refinancing

The first few years, your monthly mortgage payment goes mostly to interest instead of the principal of the mortgage.  The effect of the interest payment is significant.  When it comes to refinancing your mortgage you will want to calculate the monthly interest savings verse how much it will costs to refinance the loan.  In theory refinancing is the process of taking out a mortgage on the existing amount owed on the home loan at a lower interest rate.    Often times you can extend the amount of time in which to repay the mortgage as well to lower the monthly payment even more.

If you need assistance with your mortgage in order to decrease the monthly payment meet with your mortgage broker.  They have insight on the lowest interest rates, loan options along with connections within the industry to help lower your monthly mortgage payment.  This in turn lowers the amount you will pay on the overall home loan as well.

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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Metal Roofing Advantages

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to any home improvement project there are many decisions that need to be made. One decision that often plagues homeowners is with choosing materials. This is true whether you are remodeling your bathroom or replacing your homes roof. The materials you choose can make the difference between the success or failure of your home improvement. Using quality materials and experienced contractors, especially in roofing, will determine the lifespan of your renovation.

A perfect example of this is happens to be when choosing between metal or asphalt when roofing. A metal roof, installed by an experienced roofing contractor, can increase the lifespan of your homes roof from fifteen years to forty plus years. Consider the following advantages of metal roofing when replacing your homes roof.

Durability: Metal roofing has one major advantage over other roofing materials. Metal is more durable than any other material that can be used to replace your homes roof. The lifespan of a metal roof is upwards of forty years while asphalt roofs may only last about fifteen years.

Variety: When replacing your homes roof it is important to match the aesthetics of your home and neighborhood. You want your roof to stand out from other homes in the area without being a neighborhood eyesore. Metal roofing comes in a variety of styles and colors to compliment your home’s exterior.

Eco-Friendly: Metal roofing is made up of nearly sixty percent recycled materials. Approximately twenty billion pounds of asphalt shingling is dumped into landfills each year. This type of waste is not beneficial to the environment. If you choose metal over asphalt it is important to note that instead of removing the asphalt shingles the metal roof can be installed directly on top of them. You will not be contributing to the waste that is filling up the limited space available in landfills.

Value: Metal roofing saves money over asphalt in that it has an increased lifespan, discounts on homeowner’s insurance and decreased utility bills thus increasing the overall value of metal roofing. Metal roofing is fire resistant and does not deteriorate over time. This allows insurance companies to offer policies at up to a thirty five percent discount. Utilities bills are lower yearly as well because metal roofing is efficient in keeping heat in when it is cold outside or cool air in when it is hot. Metal roofing improves the overall value by adding equity to the sale price when you go to sell your home.

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 athttp://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home Pro Roofing MI

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Taking Care Of Your Home’s Roof

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Homeownership is one of the largest responsibilities that a person can take on. Homes are one of the single most expensive purchases most people make in their lifetime. Owning a home is largely rewarding especially when actions are taken to properly maintain it. This doesn’t mean that it is without its hassles though. Unexpected occurrences have a way of turning into unforeseen repairs and surprise expenses. One area often overlooked is your homes roof. This is an expense that you want to be prepared for as a new roof is a financial commitment in itself.

Your homes roof is an essential element of your home. A lot goes into building your homes roof therefore a lot must go into maintain it. There are many different ways to go about this. One way is to hire a professional roofing contractor once a year. They will come out, get on the roof and physically inspect and repair any faulty areas within the roof and its structure. Another way is to come up with a safe maintenance plan that you yourself can use to inspect the roof at the beginning of the spring and fall seasons. Maintaining and protecting your homes roof from the elements is fundamental to ensure the safety and comfort of your family.

The climate throughout the North is often unpredictable no matter what season we are in. We can always expect inclement weather which will unfortunately impact your home, especially the roof. You must maintain and prepare your roof for everything that is possible from high winds, tornadoes, hail, ice, wet snow and more. The weather is especially uncertain throughout the summer and winter; take time in the spring and fall to ensure gutters are clear, shingle replaced, tar and caulk applied and repairs to the structure are made.

If you are currently unsure about the condition of your homes roof it is best to hire a professional roofing contractor to inspect it. While they are there have them go over what they are checking for in order to create a checklist for yourself. Have the roofer give you an estimate on labor costs to repair the roof so that you can start stashing cash away now. If upon inspection they find that the roof is too far gone to be repaired and needs to be replaced you can have them prepare a quote on the spot. This will give you a ball park figure to work with and something to compare other quotes too.

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 athttp://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

 

Home Pro Roofing MI

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