Finishes for a Gunite Pool: Plaster, Pebble, and Tile

Pound Pool Plastering cares a great deal about our clients and their concrete pools.  We want to ensure that your plaster pool is finished with the utmost of care.  Standard white plaster is a classic, timeless, look that many homeowners still choose today however, there are other options available that may change your mind. 

Standard White Plaster Pool Finish

Plaster is made of a combination of white cement, white sand or a marble aggregate, and water.  Professional pool builders use a flat, rounded trowel to apply the plaster to the concrete (Gunite) base structure.  White plaster can be dyed different colors during the combination process if the homeowner desires. 

Advantages of Plaster

Plaster is a well-known material that has been used in pool design since the beginning of pool construction.  As a pool finish, plaster is an inexpensive option that provides a simple, classic look to your in-ground swimming pool. 

Disadvantages of Plaster

The main disadvantage of plaster is that it can feel rough to the touch.  As with any pool finish, plaster required regular surface maintenance to prevent algae build up.  Once every three to five years plaster requires acid washing which removes staining.  If a plaster pool is not maintained correctly it is prone to cracking however this is the same of many pool finishes.  Plaster, if well maintained is durable, and can lasts upwards of ten years.

Aggregate Pool Finish

An upgrade from a plaster finish is an aggregate which is a combination of pebbles instead of sand to cement, water mixture.  Once the pebbles, concrete, and water are combined it is applied to the pool.  The top later of plaster will be wiped away to reveal the pebbles.  Although pebbles are a common aggregate material other material such as glass beads and quartz can be used.  Aggregate finishes can be exposed or polished.  An exposed aggregate reveals the whole pebble which provides a bumpy texture.  A polished aggregate is polished flat and provides a smooth texture. 

                Advantages of Aggregate

Aggregate pool finishes, when maintained, can last longer than standard plaster finishes.  Quartz finishes can last twelve plus years while pebbles can last some twenty plus years.  Glass beads are small and soft on feet.

                Disadvantage of Aggregate

The larger the aggregate material, the less comfortable it can be to walk on.  Consider the last time you have walked into a rocky Great Lake; large rocks make navigation tricky to the feet.  Smaller aggregate materials are less of an issue.  If glass beads are used in creating the aggregate, it is common to experience some fading and discoloration.

Tile Pool Finish

Pool tiles are created from several different materials including standard porcelain, stone, and glass.  Some homeowners choose a combination of the three to create a unique pool design.  Porcelain pool tiles can be glazed, textured, or hand painted.  Porcelain tile is usually used around the waterline of the pool. 

                Advantages of Tile

Tile is the longest lasting material that can be used as an interior pool finish on concrete pool foundations.   Tile is easier to maintain as well.

                Disadvantage of Tile

Tile is costlier than plaster or aggregate which can add thousands of dollars to finishing your pool.  Another disadvantage is that tiles chip and crack easy and if installed incorrectly can have sharp edges. 

Pound Pool Plastering offers several options when it comes to servicing your pool including plaster, caulk, tiling, cement decks, plumbing, and coping in both commercial and residential settings.  More information can be found at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Repairing Your Roof In the Winter Months

Obviously, it is best to repair leaks in roofing during the spring, summer or fall however, if necessary, roof repair is possible during the winter.  Although there are limitations in roofing materials, winter roofing is ever bit as possible as it is in the spring, summer, and fall.  It is worth repairing or replacing a roof in the winter if damage to the home is occurring. 

If you notice a leak or damage to your roof during the winter months, it needs to be replaced or repaired to prevent damage.  The smallest of leaks can cause incredible damage to the structure of your home.  Roof leaks are worsened by the expansion and contraction of roofing materials during the constant freeze and thaw that occur during the winter months.  Small leaks turn into major leaks almost overnight. 

Winter Roofing

Yes, roofers work during the winter months.  Roofers are used to extreme weather whether in the sweltering heat of the summer sum or the freeze of the winter, roofers are hard at work.  There are pros and cons to working in both environments.   Roofing materials all react differently in conditions under forty degrees.   These materials should not be installed in the winter.  Instead, roofing contractors use materials that can be installed at any time of the year, no matter what the weather.        

Flat Roofing

Two types of flat roofing systems can be properly installed in the winter, PVC and TPO.  Instead of adhesives, thermoplastic single ply flat roof products are mechanically installed, and the seams are hot air welded.  Rubber roofing, an alternative to thermoplastic, are not a good option during the winter months when temperatures are below forty degrees because the adhesive used to install them will not seal.  The adhesive will end up freezing and not bond.  It is important to use the proper material for the season in which you are having a new roof, replacement roof, or roof repair completed. 

Sloped Roofing

The most common material that roofing contractors use on sloped roofs is asphalt shingling.  It is possible for asphalt shingles to be installed during the winter months however they must be careful not to bend the shingles. Asphalt shingles require a proper seal between the overlapping shingles.  In order to bond the shingling needs heat from the sun.  When asphalt shingles are installed in the winter they will not properly seal until warmer weather sets in. 

Asphalt shingling is susceptible to ice dams.  Ice dams are large ice buildups that form at the eaves of the roof.  They are caused from improper attic insulation and poor attic ventilation.  Installing an ice and water shield membrane helps alleviate ice dam leaks.  The sun’s heat is also needed to adhere the material to the roof decking. 

Metal Roofing

Metal is one roofing material that can be installed in the winter, no matter what the temperature, without compromising quality.   Metal roofing materials do not crack and allows for expansion and contraction even in cold temperatures.  Roofing contractors use premium, breathable, synthetic underlayment to contend with moisture from improper ventilation.  Modifications to ventilation should be done when a roof is replaced to prevent damage from ice build up no matter what material is used.

As a full-service home improvement contractor servicing all Southeast Michigan, Kearns Brothers, Inc. offers clients a wide range of services to meet their construction needs including: roofing, siding, window, masonry, chimneys, gutters, and insulation services.  More information can be found at www.kearnsbrothers.com.

How Will We Know if We Should Replace or Recondition Large Scaled Electrical Equipment?


Transformers are used in industrial and manufacturing settings as a way to control the electricity infrastructure within a facility.  They are used to step up and power down different voltages of electricity to equipment throughout.  The longevity of transformers comes down the environment in which they are ran and the amount of usage received.  A typical end of life period for transformers under average usage is somewhere between twenty to forty years.  Factors other than age are often used to consider if a transformer should be replaced.  With this in mind, many facilities are considering refurbishing older transformers that are still showing signs of good health instead of replacement. 

In the following installment we will look at the many reasons that refurbishment of transformers is becoming popular verse replacement.  We will also look at why some transformers can be refurbished and why others shouldn’t be.  There are limitations to refurbishing transformers that we will look into as well. 

Why Choose to Refurbish Verse Replace?

Refurbishing Transformers Saves Money and Time

The cost to refurbish a transformer is substantially less than purchasing a brand new one.  Cost is definitely a factor in refurbishing, but it is also important to recognize the time saving.  The time to refurbish a transformer is substantially less than the time it takes to procure a new piece of electrical equipment for your facility, such as a transformer.

Buying new equipment often comes about through a lengthy process that requires approval from a number of sources before it can be completed.  It is also considered a capital expense which many facilities try to budget ahead for.  Refurbishment is often classified as a revenue expense which doesn’t often require approval.  Extending the life of quality assets is good for business and refurbishing can achieve this without risk. 

Extended Transformer Life

We are all responsible for doing our part in creating a sustainable environment to leave to generations to come.  The environmental impact of manufacturing and equipment disposal is not something that is taken lightly.  Reconditioning transformers and other large scaled equipment helps to demonstrate environmental sustainability which is not only showing corporate responsibility but also regulatory consciousness.  Prolonging the life of large scaled equipment through reconditioning is just one way to exhibit your company’s commitment to environmental impact as well as to the confidence that the plant will continue to operate efficiently without risk of unexpected failure.

If you do find that you have had to replace a transformer for a reason other than failure, the older transformer can be refurbished and kept as a spare.  In order to determine if a transformer can be refurbished it is necessary to assess the transformer.  The extent of reconditioning needed to make it like new again may be deemed too much.  However, when refurbishment is deemed appropriate, the transformer is brought to a dedicated facility where reconditioning can be performed. 

J & P Electrical Company is a full-service electrical company that supplies contractors, end users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We purchase a wide range of electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bud ducts, panel switches, substations, and transformers.  More information can be found at https://www.jpelectricalcompany.com



High-Tech, Low-Maintenance Bathroom and Kitchen Trends For 2019


Today’s kitchen and bathroom designs look much different than they once did.  Long gone are the days of bright colored kitchen accessories and appliances and utensils that serve only one purpose.  We have trades yellows, oranges, and greens in for white, gray, and stainless steel.  Now-a-days everything is about simplicity and function.  Homeowners are looking to create spaces that are organized, uncluttered, and tranquil. 

There is nothing new to the white and gray color trend that is upon us.  In remodeling and new construction both, the peace and calm that comes with this color combination makes it attractive.  This isn’t the only trend that seems to be highly identifiable throughout the construction industry. 

Another trend that seems to be picking up speed is the ability to customize their homes and the spaces within them without dating them.  Flexibility in decorating has become important.  Homeowners want the ability to switch a few elements and create a completely different space without the expense of a complete room renovation.  This allows homeowners to keep up with the latest trends without the costs of remodeling year in and year out.

In 2019, trends, updates, and modifications in bathroom and kitchen designs come from innovations in technology and the desire for easy, low-maintenance living.  When working with your contractor on the design of your kitchen and/or bathroom renovation consider the following.

The Latest Luxuries to Consider in Bathroom Renovation Design

Smart Toilets:

Technology has improved lots of features in the home including the most basic feature, your toilet.  New toilet models have advanced features that make bathroom maintenance minimal.  Smart toilet models have built-in features including bidets, self-cleaning functions, and night lights.  How great is it to have a toilet that does not need to be deep cleaned on a regular basis?  Don’t be surprised when your contractor asks you if you want a toilet seat that is adjustable or one that will warm your bottom!

Barn Doors:

Rustic and industrial-chic features have been a part of remodeling for years now.  Using barn doors is an efficient way homeowner can gain access to a room or closet without having to make room for the door to swing open and closed.  Barn doors are used a lot in universal design because of the safety mechanisms that they can be fitted with to prevent locking from the outside. 

Free- Standing Tubs:

Bathroom spaces are bigger than ever before.  With more floor space comes the ability to add luxury.  One of these luxuries is large, free-standing bathtubs.  Most stand-alone tubs are large enough that users can actually soak their entire bodies in them, including their knees.  This luxury is something that homeowners are embracing.  Not only are large bathtubs popular in remodeling but so are larger showers with an abundance of faucets and not just the one overhead. 

Mixing Materials:

There is a lot of room for originality even when homeowners choose to stick with a neutral gray and white color scheme in the kitchen and bath.  The mixing of different tiles including porcelain, stone, ceramic, and glass tiles are being mixed to create appeal.  Different textures add charm even if they are in the same color palate. 

Voice Controlled Technology:

Homes are being renovated to include all types of smart technology.  Your toilet isn’t the only thing that can light up and clean it-self. Without ever touching a button, homeowners have the ability to adjust the lighting in their smart mirrors, increase the temperature of the water coming out of the faucet, increase the volume of the television and stereo as well as changing the lighting.  Imagine being able to control the radio station without leaving the shower.

JFC Remodeling is a full-service licensed contractor out of Howell, Michigan.  Specializing in kitchen and bathroom renovations, flooring upgrades, and home remodeling services.  More information can be found online at https://jfcremodeling.com/.



The Installation of a Driveway Gate Creates an Impressive Entry


From walkways to driveways, a gate can transform the entire look of the landscape while adding a layer of security.  Aluminum estate gates alter the aesthetics of your home.  With curb appeal being an important factor in the way your home is viewed by outsiders, enhancements that not only add beauty but also security can make a big difference. 

Driveway gates are commonly installed either to large columns on either side of the drive or to heavy duty aluminum posts that are purchased in conjunction with the gate.  Driveway gates can be installed together or separate of perimeter fencing.  The design is truly customizable to that of what each individual user desires.  For some homeowners, their property is lined with wooded acreage that makes a fence unnecessary where as others have wide open yards that they are looking to completely secure.   Before ordering it is important to have a general understanding of what you hope to accomplish with the installation of an estate driveway gate. 

Small Estate Gates

Not all entry gates are grand in scale.  An aluminum entry gate that compliments your home and space is what is most important.  Some entryways are small in scale and a large driveway gate may be aesthetically overwhelming.  Choose an entry gate that fits your space.  The gate should first and foremost be realistic for your situation and needs. 

There are a variety of options to choose from at iFenceUSA for even the smallest of driveways.  Although for most smaller driveways a single gate is ideal, some homeowners desire the look and function of a double gate.  It is important that once the gate is installed it is functional and that vehicles of all sizes can still access the home.  Remember that large delivery trucks will still need to make their way up your drive on occasion.  The goal is not to make your small driveway smaller with the installation of a gate but to enhance and secure the existing space. 

Extra Wide Estate Gates

What happens when you have the opposite issue and your driveway is extra wide?  Believe it or not iFenceUSA has an aluminum driveway gate that will fit any size or shape driveway or entrance that exists.  Custom gates are our specialty and can come in any of the 18 styles we offer, with an arch, without an arch, with or without ornamental metal options, you name it and we can more often than not make it happen. 

The most important factor when ordering a driveway gate, small or large, is to take proper measurements.  There are a number of guides online at our website that will help you properly measure for the gate you desire.  The first measurement that is needed is between the two stationary posts (or columns) that the new gate will be attached to. It is important not to include the measurement of the posts, only the space between the posts is needed. 

The estate gate that you choose to install is totally dependent on the type of property you have, your exact need, and the image you hope to communicate.  When it comes to designing a gate or fence for that matter, your options are endless with aluminum.  The team at iFenceUSA can help you achieve a secure, eye-catching, operational aluminum entry gate for your driveway or walkway. 

iFenceUSA is an online distributor of wholesale aluminum fences and gates for residential, resort, commercial, and industrial installation.  As an industry leader in maintenance-free aluminum fencing products we have all your aluminum fence and gate needs covered.  More information can be found online at https://ifenceusa.com/.



Planning Your Home For Aging In Place Renovations

In general, society tends to shy away from talking about and planning for the steps necessary as we age.  The hard-cold truth though is that we are all going to get older.  We will start to lose the ability to do as we once did and eventually will need aides in place to assist us with everyday tasks.  Age in place remodeling allows us to be in charge in the changes happening in our homes.  Beginning this process sooner rather than later allows for better planning and helps to create a safer, more usable space that is easy for homeowners of all ages to live in. 

Below is a list of age in place renovation ideas to help get you inspired during your next remodeling project.  It is important to take control of your quality of life while you are still fully in charge to ensure your own personal comfort in your home throughout the aging process.

Age in Place Kitchen Renovation Ideas

Kitchens are a key space in renovating for aging as much of our time is spent in the space.  Elements to consider include:

  • Sinks:  If possible, install a motorized sink that can raise and lower. These are a perfect addition for individuals who are unable to stand for long periods of time or are wheelchair bound.  Increasing the height of a sink can be beneficial as well as it offers support to lean upon for those using the sink in an upright position.  Consider installing a shallow sink with a hands-free faucet element with a pull-out sprayer are beneficial as well. 
  • Cabinets:  Install cabinet hardware that can easily be opened and closed, most often “D” shape pulls work the best.  Cabinets with shelving that is easily pushed in and pulled out is the best suited option for both top and bottom cabinets when remodeling a kitchen for aging in place.
  • Appliances: The installation of universally designed appliances is a major advantage when renovating your kitchen for ease of use for aging homeowners.  To save money, invest in energy saving appliances that are specifically made for easy use of individuals that are aging. 

Age in Place Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Bathrooms are another space within the home that are used daily.  Elements to consider in age in place bathroom renovations include:

  • Space: The less clutter and the more open floor space the better.  If aides such as a wheelchair or cane are needed it is crucial that there is space within the room to move about.
  • Toilets:  A seat extender can be used on a standard toilet height however a taller toilet is the best option.  Install a toilet that can accommodate aging users with limited mobility.  It gets harder to stand up off a toilet the lower the basin is.  Consider adding a budget for improved hygiene.  Toilet paper holders should be installed within easy sitting reach. 
  • Grab Bars: Anytime you can add on support it increases the safety of a room and task ten-fold.  Consider adding grab bars around the toilet and shower.  Grab bars should support upwards of 300 pounds.  Textured grab bars are better than non textured.
  • Bathtubs/Showers: Standard bathtubs are not ideal for aging individuals.  If possible, replace standard tubs with walk-in tubs or a no threshold shower.  It is crucial to offer seating either permanent or temporary, adjustable shower heads with a hand-held option, and a non-slip floor.

Each room in your home from the laundry room to the garage should all be included in planned age in place renovations.  It is important that spaces are uncluttered, free of throw rugs, and made to be as easy to use as possible.  If there is a simpler way to complete everyday tasks make sure it is in place to bring as much ease of living as possible to your home and loved ones.

Glen Miller the Home Doctor is a licensed general contractor servicing Livingston County and the surrounding areas.  Glen offers a wide range of services including home maintenance plans, age in place remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, finished basements, and hardwood floor refinishing.  More information can be found online at https://www.glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/.

It Is True, Wedding Planners Do It All

When it comes to planning a wedding the spectrum of brides ranges from those who have absolutely no idea what they are doing to those who believe that after they have planned their own wedding, they should quit their jobs and plan weddings full-time.  It is pretty obvious that brides who have no idea where to start would hire a wedding planner to help them through the planning and execution of their big day however, for brides that feel like they have it under control or where money is tight the answer might not be as clear cut. 

Should you hire a wedding planner?

YES! All brides, no matter if they have a clue or not can benefit from the experience, industry connections, and extra hands that a wedding planner offers to their big day. 

A wedding planner not only saves brides and grooms time but also money.  Choosing to hire a wedding planner is wise.  In actuality, the money spent on a wedding planner is often recouped by brides and groom in a multitude of ways. Consider the days off that you would have to take if planning your wedding without the help of a planner.  Days off without pay to visit vendors and scope out venues.  Think about all the lost connections as well.  Wedding planners have connection within the industry that brides and grooms don’t.  These connections can lead to big savings.  It is not uncommon for vendors to offer discounts to brides and grooms who book them through certain wedding planners. 

Wedding consultants can really help stretch a wedding parties’ budget.  After planning so many weddings, consultants know what is important, what aspects are going to have an impact and what aspects will get overlooked.  Although releasing 20 doves may seem like a good idea, the same affect can be had from just two and save a ton of money.  What seems like a small decision can wind up costing brides and grooms’ big bucks.  Wedding planners can help guide them into better decisions that offer the same impact.  

Wedding planners will always be on your side.  They fight for what you want and work for you to keep your vision in mind when working with vendors and YOUR FAMILY.  It is true, not all fairy tale weddings occur without some hiccups from the people throwing their two sense in the mix which can often derail an already stressed out bride’s ability to make decisions.  Thankfully when you hire a wedding planner to help make your magical day come to life all they want is to bring your dream to life.  They will fight for your wants and needs.  They take your unique vision and eliminate the opinions of others to make it happen. 

The journey from “Will you marry me” to “I Do” is a long one.  Many brides have told us that by the end they just run out of fight.  A wedding planner doesn’t let this happen.  If you want an outdoor wedding even if it looks like it is going to rain, a wedding planner will fight to bring your vision to light up to the very last minute.  They will be out drying chairs if it stops 5 minutes before you are walking down the aisle and if the rain looks like it won’t be stopping, we do our best to turn the indoors into an outdoor paradise for you.  

Wedding planners bring the level of stress down a hundred notches.  Let’s face it, brides are under a lot of stress.  Vendors often mention that it way more difficult to work with a bride, groom or their parents then it is to work with a planner.  Wedding planners streamline the process, thus decreasing the overall stress that participants from all angles are experiencing. 

Event Planning DC provides full event planning, partial event planning, month-of (day-of) event coordination, event styling/design and decorating services throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia, with access to local and national vendors who may provide additional services suitable for your event and budget.  We pride ourselves on providing only the highest quality event coordination, giving you and your guests the perfect day, no matter what the occasion including exclusive corporate and non-profit events, weddings, Bar & Bat Mitzvahs, community events and milestone celebrations.  More information can be found online at https://www.eventplanningdc.com.

Is It Necessary to Hire a Professional Programmer When Developing an Apple iPhone App?

Do you think that you have the next big idea for an app for the Apple iPhone?  Are you interested in developing and marketing it to the masses?  If this describes you, we have some helpful advice.  First and foremost, unless you are a professional mobile app developer it is important that you team up with an experienced iPhone developer like Creative Programs & Systems to help you bring your iPhone app design into reality. 

Benefits of Professional Mobile iPhone iOS App Development

Mobile apps are being used more and more by a variety of industries as a way to connect companies to clients in a reliable and efficient manner.  iPhone apps have a variety of purposes including fun, education, medical, financial, health, planning, and more.  If you have a mobile app idea and the ability to promote it, you will find a market that is looking for exactly what you are developing.

Hiring for iPhone App Development

As you already know the iPhone is a tool that many of us cannot live without.  It provides us with the latest technology, delivering a number of functions and features that make our everyday lives simpler.  A fun fact is that the Apple App Store is the largest throughout the whole world.  Many industry experts surmise that Apple is the main contributor in the success and constant advancements in the mobile app industry.  To venture alone into the maze of apps available in the iTunes store would simply be detrimental.  To make your mark on an already crowded market a professionally designed mobile app starts you out in the right direction.

It is almost impossible for novice app designers to keep pace with the industry and its changes.  The professional team of iPhone app experts at CPS are up to date on the latest industry news, tech updates, and will work directly with you to develop your iPhone app. 

Another benefit of working with a trained iPhone app programmer is that your app is developed according to your deadlines and within the budget that you set forth.  This is not always easily handled when you are working in your spare time on getting your new app launched.  It is also very difficult for novice app designers to create a faultless app that integrates itself the abundance of features on the iPhone.  This allows the best of your app to be show cased without unnecessary adaptations that take extra time, money, and effort to create. 

Finding the Right Developer to Create Your iPhone App

With an ever-booming industry such as mobile app development you are sure to find thousands of companies claiming to be iPhone app experts specializing in all the aspects of iPhone development.  Your goal is to find a professional that fits your need.  Some developers prefer to clients to be hands off throughout the process while others are super excited to work with you to bring the app you envision to life. Below are some steps you can take to help you find the perfect fit for your project.

  • Before signing the dotted line of that proposal take time to go through the company’s portfolio and previous experience.  Take time to upload, review, and analyze previous mobile apps that have been developed.
  • Seek out the opinion of previous clients.
  • Register as an Apple Developer.  This allows the company you are working with to work on your behalf throughout the submission process.  It guarantees at the end that you are the sole owner of the app.
  • Having a confidentiality agreement in place is crucial.  It may even be in your best interest to seek a non-disclosure agreement.
  • Work directly with the developer so that your expectations are clear.  Chart out the different requirements within the app so that a goal of what you hope to achieve is understood.
  • Take time to look into similar apps within the Apple Store.  How are they priced?  Did they have an introductory price during their initial launch?  How does your app differ?  What ways will you achieve promoting your app? 

The better prepared you are the better.  Being able to clearly define what you want and what you expect at the end allows for better communication which allows your dream to become a reality sooner.

Creative Programs and Systems, CPS, is an all-inclusive IT solutions company offering a variety of services including: managed IT services, IT consulting, residential computer services, custom programming, website design, iphone & android app development, and more.  More information can be found at https://cpsmi.com.

This will come to no surprise, WINTER is here!

After a mild winter here in Pinckney and throughout all of Michigan, the snow and ice has finally arrived.  It is time to break out your favorite moon boots, puffy jacket, and bib overall snow pants, the sledding hills are open.  However, if you are trying to sell your home, it can be an incredibly stressful time.  Winter house sales are notoriously low, but we are here to help; after all buyers exist year-round not just when the weather is cooperating.

Home buyers and sellers are fewer in the winter months.   If you need to buy or sell a home quickly during winter, it is imperative that you work with a professional real estate company like Century 21 Lady of the Lakes.  It won’t be a simple process, but when it comes to selling or buying a home, no matter the season, we have you covered. 

Attracting Home Buyers

Make Accessing Your Home as Easy as Possible

When visiting homes, buyers are trying to picture themselves in them.  They want to feel safe in the place that they choose to call home.  Part of this is the ability to easily move about without concern.  Make sure you clear the snow and ice from your driveways, sidewalks, backdoor entrances, and porches.  Salt and de-icer should be used in all areas that will need to be accessed, it shouldn’t be icy where buyers will be.  Clear icicles, make pathways to ease access to the backyard, generally making it easy for sellers to move about the property.

Make Your Home Welcoming

The inside of your home should make buyers feel as if they just stepped into their new home.  A few key elements can help with this.  First, turn the thermostat up!  Not too high as to roast them but the home should be comfortably warm. 

Next, it is important to take time to bring in the natural sunlight.  Open up the curtains and shades in your home to maximize the natural light.  If your home is showing during the evening hours, it is equally important to have light but obviously in a different form.  Lamp lighting and candle light can have a similar effect. 

If you are having a few showings in one day in may be a good idea to set out some waters, coffee, and fingers snacks.  After a long day of looking at homes it will be a welcome treat and a way to allow your home to stand out from the others. 

Know About the Mechanics of Your Home

Buyers will want to know all about your home because it could someday soon be theirs.  Have as much information available as possible on key elements such as the foundation, appliances, water heater, windows, HVAC, plumbing, electrical and roof.  Buyers will want to know when they were installed, last serviced, and about the maintenance that has been done.  Homeowners appreciate when sellers are good at keeping records about their home’s health and will put their minds at rest.  

Remove Clutter and Tidy Up

Your home can look a little cluttered during the winter.  Outdoor gear is big and bulky, and Christmas decorations can be overwhelming, and just general stuff seems to take over in the winter when we are too cold to put things in their proper place. 

Take time before listing your home to pack up the non-sensical things that have accumulated over the years of living within the space.  The goal is to unstuff your home so that buyers can see how ample and spacious the home is.  This is one tip not to ignore.  Rent a storage unit and simply move things that are not needed into it until you sell your home.  When all of the closets and garage aren’t bursting at the seems the home appears roomier. 

C21 Lady of the Lakes is a full-service realtor serving Livingston County and the surrounding areas with all their real estate needs.  More information can be found at http://www.ladyofthelakes.com/.

Is Bankruptcy The Solution?


The prospect of declaring bankruptcy is frightening.  Not feeling like you are in complete control over your finances can make you feel like a failure.  When you are in a situation in which you are contemplating the pros and cons of bankruptcy it is important to note that you are in complete control.  Bankruptcy allows individuals to regain control over their finances.  It gives you the ability to start over from scratch. There is no need to live in debilitating debt any longer. 

Bankruptcy can be the solution if you can answer yes to 2 or more of the following questions:

  • Are you only making minimum payments on your credit card?
  • Do bill collectors call you regularly?
  • When you are paying bills or sorting through your finances, do you feel anxious?
  • Are you paying for necessities with credit cards?
  • Have you considered debt consolidation?
  • Do you have any idea to how much you owe?

Accessing Your Financial Situation

Answering yes to two or more of these questions is a sure sign you should give your financial status a bit more thought.  Bankruptcy is a situation where relief is offered when you owe more than you can afford to pay. 

It is important first to review your liquid assets.  This includes checking and savings accounts, retirement funds, stocks, bonds, real estate, college savings accounts, and other bank and non-bank assets.  A rough estimate will do.

The next step is to create a list of your debts including all credit cards, car payments, monthly bills, house payments, and such. Declaring bankruptcy is an option out of a tricky financial situation when your assets are less than your debt.

Steps in Declaring Bankruptcy

There are two ways in which an individual can declare bankruptcy.  The most common method is to voluntary file.  The second is for creditors to ask the court to order an individual bankrupt.  For the best outcome and restart to your financial future consulting with a bankruptcy lawyer is important. An attorney specializing in bankruptcy can determine the best option for your individual circumstances. 

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most common option for individuals when filing bankruptcy.  Some of the most common reasons that individuals are forced into bankruptcy include unemployment, medical expenses, overextended credit, and divorce.  Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a straightforward option to settle debts.  In this type of bankruptcy any assets you may have that are considered above and beyond necessary will be liquidated.  The cash from these assets will be liquidated and distributed to your creditors. 

Four months later a discharge will be received.  The bankruptcy will stay on your financial record for the next ten years.  This doesn’t have to mean your financial life is over.  Even with a bankruptcy on your record you can begin to rebuild your credit.  Chapter 7 offers a fresh start to individuals quicker than other bankruptcy options such as Chapter 13. 

If you are experiencing financial hardship take time to schedule a free consultation with Bohikian Law Group.

Bohikian Law Group specializes in bankruptcy services including chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy.  More information can be found at https://bohikianlaw.com.