Livingston Reporting - page 308

Turning Any Home Accessible With Handicap Construction

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to aging in place the best plan is to make a plan of action as the day will sneak up on you before you even realize it. Aging happens to us without even letting us have a clue that it is happening. My parents who I still considered incredibly young at sixty five however there are things around the house that I already see becoming increasingly difficult for them to do. My dad of course is still taking on all of the challenges without asking for a bit of help however the day is coming all too soon when he will have no choice.

Each room of the house has its challenges when it comes to aging in place. The same is true when faced with handicap construction for people with special needs. When it comes to kitchen remodels it is important to adjust many aspects within the environment.

One item that is easy to manipulate are the cabinets. Base cabinets can be fitted with roll-out trays making the items easier to reach. Remember as we age bending becomes a bit more difficult. Corner cupboards can be enhanced using a lazy-susan. This accessory allows everything within the space to be glided on a spinning platform which makes the items in the back easier to reach with the rotation of the tray. Also replace cabinet knobs with easy pulls. Aging hands are often arthritic and some pulls can be especially difficult to put your hand around.

Consider replacing the kitchen faucet as well. Knob fashion faucets make it difficult to turn the water on and off. A single levered faucet works well for individuals that have lost hand strength or are simply becoming affected by the ailments that come with the aging process.

The next element to consider is when it comes to the stovetop and oven. The best option, if it is within your budget is to replace gas and electric stovetop areas with induction stovetops. An induction stovetop uses magnetic energy and will only heat the area below and right next to the pot. This reduces the likelihood of injury from burns related to hot stovetops. Not to mention the benefit of less energy used.

Kitchen lighting should illuminate the countertops. This can be done by adding under-wall cabinet lighting. If the work surface is brighter it is easier for elder eyes to work when it comes to slicing vegetables and working on the counter.

The last thing within the kitchen to think about is the flooring. It is necessary to ensure that the flooring is not slippery or filled with throw rugs. If you find the floor surface to be a bit slippery you can use a anti-slip treatment on the floor to help.

Each room in the home with has different handicap construction/age in place needs that need to be met as the aging process begins. The goal is to define issues as they arise and create solutions before they become problems.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Keeping Your Online Business Up To Date By Redesigning Your Website

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is so exciting to take your business online. It is hard to be unbiased when it comes to looking at the design of your online business. When evaluating your website you need to step back and ask yourself two vital questions; How long has your current site been online and How long has it been since it was last updated? It might actually throw you back a little to realize the amount of time it has been since you updated the information, design and possibly layout of your website.

It is common to have a website designed, online and functioning without paying any attention to it for years. Will it work for growing your online business or reputation? The answer is simple, NO! In order for you online presence to grow, as well as your business, you must keep up with your website. This includes keeping up with the information throughout the site and ensure that it is relevant and up-to-date.

If you current site has an outdated look it is time to update it. A full redesign should be considered as much of the information is probably just as outdated as the design. Think about it this way, when you are looking to purchase a home and the kitchen has not been update since the 80’s what is your initial reaction? I am sure most of you simply pass on the home. The thought being that if the homeowner did not take time to keep up on the design and updates of the house what else has not been kept up on. The same is true of your website design.

The next item I will bring to your attention is more subjective and according to taste. People just enjoy different things. Some people prefer plastic bracelets some prefer gold however the perception is that plastic is cheap and gold in not. The same bias holds true for your website. If your site is done by a professional web designer you should expect a complete different outcome then if you attempt it on your own or higher a high school web designer. The more professional it looks the better the perception from your potential clients.

Another thing to think about when it comes to your site is upkeep. I know I have mentioned this more than once. It is so important that when visitors come to your site they see recent blog posts along with new products, services or even just fresh information.

When it comes to your website and the design a great way to attract customers is to have your contact information visible at first glance. There is nothing more hated than outdated contact information listed that is difficult to locate on the site. A lot of website redesigns include a fresh Logo presence along with strong contact information.

Your website is to the online world as a display window is to a store front. It is how the world will see your product and your company. Keeping up to date on your website will let prospective clients know that you are serious about your business and its longevity thus proving to them that you are in it for the long haul and that they should be as well.

Creative Programs and Systems

Advice From A Professional On Selling Your Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Selling your home in today’s market takes a bit of seduction. There are so many homes on the market ranging from short sales, foreclosures to family homes and multi-level homes what will set your home apart from all the rest. What will make your home sell? There are hundreds of tricks sellers use to entice buyers however some work better than others at getting you top dollar. Below you will find ideas and tips on selling your home.

1) Never go it alone. Always hire a real estate professional to assist you in selling your home. An established realtor will know all the correct methods to pursue in marketing your home. Local real estate professionals will have a feel for what is going on with local home buyers and what they are looking for. This will help you target your home to those buyers.

An example of this comes into play when talking about move in condition or a fixer up. Every home has maintenance that can be done, upgrades to enhance and improve the home. If buyers however are looking to make these enhancements on their own, save yourself the time and money. Don’t fix up a home and drop money into it if buyers would rather have a few thousand off the homes initial price verse move in ready. A local realtor will know what buyers in your area are looking for.

2) One tip that has recently become outdated is the theory that the smell of baked goods and candles will help attract buyers. The truth is that when it comes to the smell of smoke, pets or stale cooking the best option is to thoroughly clean the home and not cover up the smells. Buyers are wise to this trick.

The best option is to “spring” clean your home. Every surface should be cleaned. If a pet has ruined the carpet and the scent is saturated it might be beyond cleaning. Scrub the walls, tile, grout and air vents. Furnace filters and water filters can be changed to ensure the water and air in the home is fresh and rid of dust and “old” smell.

3) Looking at homes that are currently being built you will notice many are spacious and open aired. If your home is older you will want to bring in all the natural light you can to make the home look new and fresh. Another top tip is to make the space appear open. This can come from clearing extra furniture from the room. Get rid of the clutter and simplify each room.

The sale of your home is a tedious process. You will be required to keep the house up at all times as showings happen when the time is right for the buyer not necessarily the seller. Your home does not have to be “maid-perfect” for showings. It is okay to show signs of life, signs that the home is lived in and taken care of. Having beds made and rooms picked up in a pinch is just fine. However, if you are having an open house where many buyers and agents will be touring the home take time to clean, dust and freshen up the work you did when beginning to process of selling your home. “Spring” cleaning the home at the start of the home selling process will make each and every showing a little bit easier on you, the seller.

Susan Doyle Real Estate

Create A Unique Landscape With The Use Of Fencing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Your landscape design is a series of separate areas within your yard that blend together to create an over-all look and feel to the entire landscape.  Each area within your yard should have features that can improve the eye appeal of your landscaping. Whether you add something as dramatic as a water feature or aluminum decorative fencing, the idea is to create harmony while adding interest and function.

Functional fencing is probably the most common of all fencing.  There are several varieties of functional fencing including chain link, wooden fence, aluminum fencing and vinyl.  Depending on the function the fence is to have will depend on what type you choose.  Many times decorative aluminum fencing is used around pools.  Aluminum fencing is the choice for many homeowners with in-ground pools. Aluminum pool fencing is within the standard code and regulation in regards to height and ability to gain access.  Aluminum decorative fence is available in many different styles to accentuate any style landscape.  It is a perfect choice as it is attractive, functional and a low maintenance fencing material.

Other options in fencing are varieties that provide function.  Styles such as chain link, wood, vinyl and aluminum fence are all types of functional fence styles.  It is obvious that some of the choices from the list above are more attractive than others however all serve the function of keeping the area secure from entrance and exit. The nice thing is that homeowners can integrate the landscaping to make the fence more attractive.

Wooden fences integrate well Evergreens and make the entire environment with a natural appeal.  Wooden fences do require a bit more maintenance than other types of fencing.  You will need to seal the fence using a natural stain or a colored stain for it to stand up to the weather.  Also if you live in a particularly wet environment be super cautious of using wood as mold grows easily on wood and is difficult to remove.

Vinyl fencing works great in environments full of colored flowers.  Lots of time vinyl fencing comes in white. The nicest thing about white vinyl fencing is that it is super easy to clean when it becomes dirty or mildew covered. A quick power was usually is enough to ensure your fence looks like the day you bought it.

When putting a fence around a pool my suggestion is to stay away from wooden fences or vinyl.  Aluminum pool fencing is the best option as it is tall, private and can easily be locked or even accessed via an electronic access entry system.  Many homeowners are including access entry systems to prevent the pool from being accessed by unauthorized individuals.  This also helps to decrease the potential for children accessing the pool without adult supervision which could lead to accidental drowning.

Different options available with aluminum fencing that includes electronic access includes card readers, hotel pools often use this, codes that are keyed in and even remote entry using a remote control.  The cost of these systems is relatively low in comparison to the risk of injury do to accidental entry to the area.

Forever-Fence, SAC Fence

Landscaping In The Spring

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Winter in Michigan is tricky; you never quite know when spring is around the corner.  We have seen snow in mid April.  Although uncommon it does happen.  We have been known to thaw and freeze again within the same week in March.  The weather is insane.  This is why Michigan landscapers prepare for spring by starting with cleaning up the landscape design and preparing gardens instead of jumping right in to planting.  Start your spring landscaping the way professionals do: start by cleaning up the existing landscape space.

The first step I take when preparing for spring is to cut back dead plants and shrubs while weeding out annuals from the previous season.  Also clean up weeds that have started to sprout.   Ornamental grasses can be cut down to around eight inches from the ground and trees and bushes should be trimmed back into their original shape.

This is a great time to turn the mulch.  Turning the mulch will help homeowners see where it is thinning and needs some freshening while also mixing the nutrients through.  Rotating the mulch allows some of the debris that has decomposed on the top layer to benefit the plants root system as well.  Spring time is great for adding mulch as well.  This gives the space a clean fresh feel when adding additional plants in late spring early summer.

Serious landscape design usually plans for an early burst of color amongst the green and brown tones left from the decay of fall leaves and plants. Adding in perennials does this for any homes landscape design.  Crocus, Iris, Daffodil and Tulip plants are terrific ways to accomplish this. When you start to see these pleasantries bloom you are also signaled that it is time to fertilize shrubs as well as bulbs.

Spring is also a great time for homeowners to test out their irrigation systems and once the last freeze has for sure occurred it is time to initiate turning the water back on to outdoor garden hooks ups and water features within the yard.

You have about a month before your garden senses start to tingle and you want to dive in to some outdoor work. Don’t get ahead of yourself.  Planting to early will prove to be a waste of money.  Remember to start with the theory of getting the canvas fresh during the spring and this will save you from early planting mistakes.

 

Bladerunners Landscape

Roof Rakes: Should You Use One?

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is SNOW season in Mid-Michigan!  This time of year can be a lot of fun.  Sleds are in use, people are skiing and snowmen are abundant.  The one thing people forget to talk about is how the winter weather can wreak havoc on your home, especially shingle roofing.

When it comes to shingle roofs it is important that access snow is removed before it is allowed to thaw and refreeze creating ice dams.  For this many homeowners choose to purchase and use roof rakes.  As a roofing contractor there are benefits and pitfalls when using them.

Before using a roof rake consider the age of your shingle roof.  Older roofs could easily be damaged using a roof rake.  Damage could include removing shingles, the grit on the shingles being removed and roof leaks/ceiling damage if not properly fixed.

Roof rakes should not be used to remove ice form your roof.  Roof rakes should be used to avoid ice form building up by removing the white fluff before it becomes solid ice.  When using a roof rake start by removing the snow at the corners of the roof and then proceeding to the middle.

Consider safety when getting the snow off the roof.  Walking on a snow covered roof is never considered a safe option.  When using a roof rake add an extension to the rake to reach higher on the roof.  Don’t use a ladder either as you can easily be thrown off balance.  Snow makes roof tops and ladders slippery.  Clearing your roof of excess snow is not worth risking a fall or damage from slipping and tearing the shingles.

If you find while using a roof rake you have loosened a shingle call a roofing professional to come out and repair the area as soon as possible to prevent any damage to the underlayment and in turn the interior roofing materials.

Home Pro Roofing MI

What To Look For When Purchasing Jewelry

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When buying jewelry it is best to decide a few things before shopping.  It is always wise to set a budget up before you shop for any large purchases, jewelry is not an exception.  Think about the metal and stones you would like as well the brand of the piece if this is important to you.  If you put some thought into the purchase beforehand you are less likely to purchase a piece on impulse.  Many impulse purchase end with unhappy consumers, don’t let this happen to you.

If you have never made a major jewelry purchase it is important to do some research so that you understand the lingo involved in the purchase.  This is especially true when it comes to a purchase such as a diamond engagement ring.  There is a lot to learn about buying diamonds, settings and metal choices of the actual band.

Purchasing a piece of jewelry is becoming just as common online as at the store.  There are a few things to ask and check out whether purchasing online or at a retail location.  The first and most important question to ask and have answered is about the refund and return policy.  This is important for many different reasons.  One of course you want to return a piece if the recipient does not like the piece or it does not fit correctly.  Make sure this is possible no matter where you purchase the jewelry from.

If purchasing pearls you will want to know if you are purchasing natural, cultured or imitation.  This should be reflected in the cost associated with the piece.   With gemstones you will want to know similar information as well.  Find out if the gemstone is natural, lab created or imitations.  This will help to determine that you are properly caring for the piece as stones each have a different way of being cared for.

When purchasing jewelry make sure the company that you are purchasing from is a legitimate jeweler.  This will take some research on your end as well. This is important no matter who you are purchasing the piece from. You will want to determine reputability. Even retailers with large names and store fronts can have bad reputations that should be avoided.

As with any large purchase the more research that is done the better prepared you will find yourself when it comes to making the purchase.  Online purchasing is becoming a way to save a lot of money when it comes to buying jewelry.  The mark up tends to be less as the overhead for online retailers is not as heavy as that of store front jewelers.

DaRoche Jewelers

Livingston County Real Estate Agent – Hard at Work Selling Your Home

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

The real estate market is back on in 2013!  Below you will find tips for selling your home that will make your home desirable to the influx of buyers.

  • Tip One: Hire a realtor with experience and a familiar name in your area.  This is the single most important piece of information anyone can give homeowners in the market to sell their homes.   Hiring a realtor people know by name is beneficial as they will already have a distinguished customer base and name recognition needed in the real estate industry.  Top realtors work on building a reputation over time this reputation allows them to sell your home.
  • Tip Two: Become nostalgic. This home has held many memories for you and your family.  It will do the same for the next family.  Your goal is to make it desirable for them to want to build their memories in your old home. What is the best way to do this?  You tube of course!  With the help of your real estate agent create a video in which you reminisce about the home, the memories in it, the updates you made and the shared times.  Walk around the neighborhood – share with the potential buyer all the benefits of your neighborhood.
  • Tip Three: When showing your home the goal is to let the potential buyer see themselves in it.  To do this you need to make the home as “bland” as possible.  This includes removing clutter and personalization.  Personalization include family portraits, religious decor and miscellaneous memorabilia.

Making the process as easy as possible for both yourselves and the buyer is the key to having a successful experience in selling your home.  Hiring the right realtor will allow you to have this experience.  Selling your home is stressful enough as you too are contemplating the purchase of a new home and move.   Make this period in time as short and stress free as possible. Get your home on the market, sold and move on at lightning speed with the help of the above tips and a top notch real estate professional.

Susan Doyle Real Estate

Glen Miller The Home Doctor Goes To Jail For MDA

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

A Note From Glen:

 

There are so many things I am thankful for this year-none more than the health of family and friends!  With that in mind I have decided to do something special in 2013… I am going to jail on February 28th and need YOUR help in raising bail!!

Okay, it’s not “real” jail… I have agreed to do an hour of “hard time” to help raise money for children and adults in our community who are living with neuromuscular diseases.

I hope you will join me to help ensure these families continue to receive the services that mean so much to them…like visits to the MDA clinics, MDA summer camp, flu shots, support groups – all at no charge to them, thank to big-hearted heros like you!

MDA has set up a secure site where you can help contribute to my bail.  Just click the link below and you will be taken directly to my site…  THANKS AHEAD OF TIME – Glen

 

http://www2.mda.org/goto/gmiller

 

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

Building A Handicap Ramp

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Building a handicap ramp may look like a weekend project but for those inexperienced in building them the process soon becomes more than they bargained for.  There are many things that do it yourself handicap ramp installers aren’t thinking of when beginning a huge project such as this.  There are things to consider before even the planning process begins.

Before a licensed wheelchair accessible ramp contractor begins the project they will come in and evaluate who the primary user is?  They will also determine what device they will need to assist them while using the ramp will be used for: a cane, a wheelchair, a walker or crutches.  The contractor will want to know if there is a chance the mobility of the person using the ramp will change.  This will determine if the ramp being installed needs to be a permanent structure or if a temporary device will work.  All while determining what permits and codes need to be met through your local municipalities.

Before trying to build a handicap ramp look into the costs of a local builder who is ADA certified verse the materials, your time and the headaches you will have once you have learned that you have done something incorrect.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor