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Choosing The Best Green Home Builder

How To Find the Right Home Builder for Your New Home

In order to build your dream home, you’ll need a custom homebuilder that can help you bring your vision to life. Building a custom home is unlike any other experience. You get to make your dream home a reality, with the location, layout, and features you’ve always wanted in a house.

Extensive experience.

A long and successful history of crafting homes in your area is one of the most important qualities to look for in a custom homebuilder.  Many builders come and go, but one of the telltale signs of a quality custom home builder is standing the test of time.

Happy customers.

Another perk of choosing a builder with a lot of experience is that you get to hear what existing customers think. Look for other homeowners who have shared their experience with the builder, like the ones here. This will help you get a sense of how smoothly the building process goes, as well as how the company treats its customers.

A strong presence in the area.

One of the benefits of building a custom home is the opportunity to choose your perfect location, whether that’s in a quite Overland Park suburb or tucked in the middle of 10 remote acres in Olathe. You can make the homebuilding process easier on yourself by selecting a builder that has several design locations in your area. You’ll likely be stopping by the design center several times during the build, and choosing a well-established builder ensures that you never have to travel far for support.

Assistance with home design, site evaluation, property development, and more.

Investing in a custom home can feel a bit scary at first. After all, you want everything to go just right, and there are a lot of steps to the process. It’s no wonder buyers are drawn to those builders that help them through the process, including home design and floor-plan customization, financing, site evaluation, and property development—and without countless upcharges

Things To Think About When Building A New Home

Know Your Budget And Stick To It

Before you start building your new home, get pre-approved for a budget and stick to it. Most house plans offer a cost to build tool (usually for a nominal fee) to give you an accurate estimate of construction costs based on where you’re building. The numbers include the costs of construction, tax benefits, funds for the down payment and slush account, and other related calculations

Fully Vet Your Builder

There are many builders are out there, but not all are created equal. Do a little research to find out which builders have the best reputation. Whether you search for information online or get recommendations from your family and friends, find out whether a builder is respected for doing quality work as well as being punctual.

Build With Resale In Mind

No matter how much you love the house that you are building, it’s unlikely that it will be the last home you will ever own. Knowing that, you should be mindful of its potential resale value. While you should personalize your home to your liking, don’t add so many upgrades that you overprice your home for the neighborhood. Stick with timeless designs that will age gracefully with your home. Remember that you can add personal touches with your decorations and paint colors.

Think Green

Building green is the future and you should make sure to maximize then when building your new home. Make sure you do your research to maximize energy-efficiency in the design of your new home. Your architect and builder can help ensure that your windows are South-facing so you get as much sunshine as possible heating your home and brightening it up. You’ll want to makes sure that bathrooms, laundries and garages are on the south side of your home and have small windows to minimize heat loss.

Don’t forget the punch

Part of the final phase of building a new home is to do a pre-walk through with your builder. Make a list at the end of construction that shows what needs to still be done or what needs to be repaired on the new construction. You and your contractor will create this list the week before closing when you go through your final walk through. You should be taking notes every time you visit your construction site or do a walk through.

Questions To Ask Your Home Builder

Building a new home can be an overwhelming experience if you don’t choose the right home builder for your needs. You should thoroughly vet your potential builder before signing any paperwork and avoiding any potential headaches. Here are some important questions to ask before you jump in.

How many homes have you built and how long have you been building for?

Be sure to look up the houses that have been built and read as many reviews as you can…remember, quality is just as important as experience. If the builder has any current homes for sale, it would be worth your time to take a tour.  Some builders have model homes that you can tour also.

Are they licensed and insured? What type of warranty do they offer?

Being properly insured is a huge must. Accidents happen, which is why insurance is so important. If an accidents occurs on the job site, or any damage is caused to your home while it’s being built, be sure the cost of the damage is covered by the builder. Also be sure to ask about a warranty: Find out how long the warranty is good for and what it covers. You don’t want to move into your brand new home only to discover an issue and have to pay out of pocket for it.

What types of homes do they build?

Some builders only build the plans they have designed. Others will build custom homes based on your unique wants and needs. Be sure to ask about standard features included and find out about any upgrade options. If you have your heart set on something that they cannot provide, do not be afraid to search for other options.

Who will be the foreman on the job site?

The foreman is the person in charge of overseeing the project on a day-to-day basis. They will be there for every step of the construction to ensure it is done right. Whoever your point of contact is, it will be important that there is an open line of communication. Building your home is a huge commitment and you should feel as comfortable as possible.

Are New Construction Homes A Good Investment?

You may ask if new construction homes are a good investment. Building a new home can be overwhelming. Let us make your journey simple by being your new home source. We know all about new construction

In this new home construction blog post we will pose questions you may not think to ask as you begin searching for a new home builder. We will answer questions quickly and simply to get you ready for this exciting time.

New Home Construction Questions

Are new construction prices negotiable?

How long does it take to build a new home?

What is the new home building process?

What makes a home energy efficient?

Can a new home help my allergies?

What is a smart home?

What is better: a new construction home or an existing home?

How do I compare builders?

Should I buy or rent a home

What upgrades are worth it?

Are there new construction homes near me?

New Home Construction Pricing

Are new construction prices negotiable? To help you understand how new home construction is priced, we have created a Pricing Guide document that outlines five pricing variables that are taken into consideration including:

Material Costs

Labor Costs

Administrative Costs

Homesite Costs

Reasonable Builder Profit

New Home Building Process

How long does it take to build a new home and what is the process? Building a new home is exciting, you can choose exactly the layout and features that will meet your family’s needs. When you build a new construction home from scratch, there is some time involved. Typically the entire building process takes 8-9 months after contract. The overall time of a build usually depends on the weather conditions. Construction can easily be delayed by shifts in temperature or too much precipitation. Concrete cure time and framing both need to be completed in ideal conditions.

Categories for New Home Building Education

How to Save Money on a New Construction Home

Building your new home is one of the biggest – if not the biggest – investments you’ll ever make, and when you have the ability to build a home with every option customized for you, things can add up. There are a lot of pros of building new construction. Two major benefits of building your home are control over costs and never having to worry about a pre-owned home

You’ve decided that you want to build your dream home. You need to know how to budget but you don’t know what costs go into building a new home. Within this post and our Pricing Guide, we will answer the following; what costs go into the price of a new construction home, how to save money on a new construction home, and how to build a new home on a budget.

What costs go into the price of a new construction home?

To help you understand how new home construction is priced, we have created a Pricing Guide to deep dive into the five pricing variables that are taken into consideration when a builder sets the sales price of new construction homes. We can’t approach new home construction pricing based on how resale homes are priced

For instance, Resale Home list prices are established based on comparable home sales, and new construction home sales prices are based on the following five pricing variables.

Material Cost

Labor Costs

Administrative Costs

Homesite Costs

Reasonable Builder Profit

How to Save money on a new construction home

If you are learning about how new homes are priced you may run across the term “Price Per Square Foot.” This is a calculation of the value of each square foot of area of a house. Similar new construction homes are based on this calculation.  Base price of new construction homes divided by the square footage is how you calculate price per square foot.  This calculation should not include the homesite.

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Water Heaters Repair That You Can Do

Do’s and Don’ts for Placing Items Near a Water Heater

Your water heater is one of the most important pieces of equipment that you have in your home. When it is not working correctly, you cannot enjoy a hot shower or heat your home. By not keeping it well maintained and taking certain precautions, it can pose a safety risk to your home and family

The problem is, many who live in smaller homes, apartments, or condos may find that they lack the extra storage space they so desperately need. Therefore, utility closets that may house your water heater could become a viable solution for storing excess items that simply do not have a home elsewhere. Depending on what you are storing near or around the water heater, this can potentially be a cause for concern as well as a safety risk to you, your home, and others.

Do … Clear the area around your water heater. Since water heaters run on electricity or fuel such as oil, propane, or gas, it is important to ensure that your water heater has adequate space for proper ventilation.

Do … Keep it clean and safe. If the space that holds your water heater doubles as a storage or laundry room, make sure you keep it organized and clean.

Do … Install shelving and hooks to keep things such as laundry detergents and other household items away from the water heater.

Don’t … Store combustible materials within 18 inches of your water heater. Flammable items placed closer than that could potentially catch fire.

Don’t … Store items that are prone to moisture damage such as books, papers, or magazines near the water heater.

Don’t … Place any items that may block or obstruct your view of the water heater. If any view is hidden, you may not notice your water heater is leaking until it’s too late.

As a rule of thumb, always remember to keep space around your water heater and store any items a reasonable distance away from the unit so that you there is no potential for a fire or safety hazard.

illustration of set different water heaters with shadows on white background

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HEATER FOR YOUR NEEDS

it may be time to consider a new heater. If this is what brought you, here are some important things to consider when choosing a new heater for your needs.

SYSTEM TYPE AND FUEL OPTIONS

start by considering your fuel options and the type of system you prefer. Many homeowners prefer natural gas heaters since they are cost-effective and fairly efficient. However, if electricity is cheaper for you, an electric heater can be a bit more efficient and effective. Propane and oil are among the other possibilities with fuel.

CORRECT SIZING FOR YOUR HOME

It’s important to have a heating system in Corona, that’s properly sized for your living spaces. An oversized or undersized heater can be inefficient and increase your risk of needing repairs. One of comfort pros can help you figure out the sizing calculations, measured in BTUs or tons, for your home. Factors such as your home’s square footage and window efficiency are also considered.

NEWER COMFORT FEATURES

The good thing about new heating installation in Corona, today is that there are many comfort features to consider, such as programmable thermostats that allow for precise temperature control. Some homeowners also prefer zoning systems. Heating systems set up this way have separate thermostats for various zones in your living spaces.

COMFORT PROS ARE HERE TO HELP

Conditioning will gladly help you narrow down your selection. Once you’ve made a decision, get your new heater properly set up. also the company you can call on for heating maintenance

Immediate Things to Do When Your Water Heater Breaks!

It’s a worse-case nightmare… You walk into your house after a long work day, and find that your water heater is leaking and you need to get it fixed quickly! If you came here looking for information on what you can do to stop a leaking water heater, you found the right page!

Stop the Water

Locate the cold water supply pipe. This pipe leads from the main water line into the top of the water heater. When working properly, the water stops flowing when the tank is full, but because of the burst, the tank pushes the water out into the room as soon as it comes in from the pipe. Turn off the cold water supply line by twisting the valve clockwise until it cannot turn anymore. This will stop the flow of water that continues to fill the hot water heater and spill out from the burst seams.

Shut Off the Power

The electric or gas heating element can pose a new hazard to your home if it continues to run. It can stay heated long after the water has leaked from the tank. This can waste energy and in the worst-case scenario, start a fire. The heating element normally shuts itself off after the water reaches a certain temperature, but if your tank burst because of a faulty thermostat, it probably will not shut itself off. Locate and flip the breaker for the hot water tank in your electrical breaker box. If the hot water heater is gas-powered, shut off the gas line leading to it, and vacate the home until the natural gas smell is completely gone.

Cleanup

Remove any undamaged furniture, boxes or other salvageable items from the water-damaged area. Take photos of the items that are damaged; as well as the walls, floors and other fixtures that are covered or soaked with water. The photos will help your homeowner’s insurance company determine the cost to repair or replace the items. Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the standing water from the area around the tank and any carpeted areas where the water has seeped. Run a dehumidifier, if you have one, to inhibit the growth of mold.

Make an Insurance Claim

Contact your insurance agent or company to make a claim. Even if you do not think that you have suffered a loss, the insurance company will likely send out a team of restoration experts to draw the excess moisture from your walls and flooring. Do not throw away your hot water tank. The insurance adjuster will need to see it to determine the cause of the burst and whether the company will pay for damages that the burst caused.The cost of the water heater itself is not likely to be covered, but nearly anything else that was damaged by the water will be covered, less your deductible. An insurance adjuster will visit your home to assess the damage. Show the adjuster the photos you took, and answer any questions she may have.

Replace Hot Water Heater

There are some home improvement projects you should never do yourself, but replacing a hot water heater is not one of them. If you have a working knowledge of basic tools and are comfortable soldering a bit of copper, you can replace a hot water heater yourself in less than a day with these steps.

Select the Right Water Heater for your Space

Nowadays, selecting a new water heater is a process in itself. Things to consider are supply, storage, energy efficiency, size, and fuel type. The different types of water heaters include conventional storage water heaters, tankless, and heat pump water heaters. Newer options include solar water heaters and indirect water heaters.

Make Checks for Safety and Permits

Before digging in, you’ll need to make some phone calls. Check with your local department of inspections and ask if you need a permit. For those of you in County, building permit information can be found here. You’re likely to need a plumbing or electrical inspector to look over your work at the end, too.

Round Up the Tools and Materials

Regardless of the type of water heater system you replace, you’re likely to need and know how to use the following tools.

Tools you need to replace a hot water heater:

4-in-1 screwdriver

Adjustable wrench

Electrical tape

Pipe wrench

Plumbers tape

Safety glasses

Soldering torch

Tape measure

Tube cutter

Voltage tester

Wire stripper/cutter

How A Water Heater Works

when you want hot water for a shower, to run a load of laundry, or to wash your dishes, you usually rely on a water heater. The most popular type of water heaters in the US is the conventional storage water heater, where water is heated to a set temperature and then stored at that temperature in a tank until a homeowner turns on the “hot” water tap. This article teaches you how the two most popular types of water heaters, gas and electric, work and heat the water in your home.

A gas powered water heater has cold water brought into the tank through a dip tube. This water is heated with a gas burner.  This burner burns gas, releasing extremely hot but toxic air up through a chimney in the middle of the water heater tank. The chimney moves this toxic air outside, all while heating the metal of the chimney. As this chimney heats up, the surrounding water is heated as well. 

Heat rises, and water heaters use this to bring warm water through the plumbing of your home.  Warm water rises to the top of the water heater tank and is moved throughout the home through the heat-out pipe. As you open the faucet for hot water, cool water is brought in through the dip tube, displacing the hot water and pushing it through the heat-out pipe. Homeowners can set the temperature they would like their water to be heated with the thermostat, which is connected to the gas line and brings the right amount of gas to the burner to reach the correct temperature.

Water heaters also have some protective measures. The temperature and pressure-relief valve, or the T and P valve, will open and release water if the temperature of the water is too hot, or the pressure inside of the tank is too high. This helps to ensure the water heater doesn’t explode.  All water heaters have a drain valve on the side of the tank to drain the water heater to reduce sediment build up, which should be done once a year

The tank itself is insulated to keep water warm for a longer period of time and to ensure the water doesn’t transfer the heat to the metal of the water heater tank. Finally, the water heater has a sacrificial anode rod, which is a rod made of a metal that rusts faster than the metal making up the water heater tank. This anode rod prevents the water heater tank from rusting… as long as it is replaced every 1-2 years after rusting away

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Home Bookkeeping Deductions Made Simple

Bookkeeping Tips From the Pros

A solid bookkeeping system is an essential aspect of running a business. No matter how small your business is, you should make sure that your books are updated, accurate, and readily available, as it provides you with crucial information on your business’ financial standing. Check out these expert bookkeeping tips to help you along the way.

Stay Confident in Your Bookkeeping Strategy

When it comes to bookkeeping, confidence in execution is key. As small business owners who may be taking on bookkeeping for the first time, it’s essential to feel secure in your company’s bookkeeping and compliance. Bookkeeping can be an overwhelming task, but there is a proper solution for your unique needs. If you are questioning your ability to strategically guide your small business in its accounting practices, a collaborative partnership may be ideal. Especially as technology and opportunity for data analysis in accounting evolves, don’t be afraid to ask for help from an expert. For example, sometimes bookkeepers don’t do taxes or they don’t have their CPA designation, so they may choose to partner with a CPA

Use Bookkeeping to Track Performance Against Plans

One bookkeeping tip that many business owners may not think about is tracking performance against a plan. Having a financial forecast or budget, and tracking your monthly progress against that plan, should be a key part of your bookkeeping process. Good bookkeeping shouldn’t be just about knowing what you’ve done, it should be about helping you know where your business is going. Work with your CPA to build a budget and revenue forecast. Then, compare what your actual results are versus the budget, and use that information to improve your company’s performance. For example, if a particular product line is growing well and providing good margins, consider putting more market money behind that product.

Have Immediate Access to Financial Data

Find a solution that gives you real-time data. If your bookkeeping is constantly behind, it becomes increasingly difficult to make strategic decisions or analyze the health of your business when you need to most. No matter where you are in your business’ journey, immediate access to critical information like cash flow forecasts based on outstanding accounts receivable and accounts payable will allow you to make smarter choices about how to grow.

Classify Your Employee Status Correctly

Companies tend to have full-time staff, part-time staff, contract workers, or a combination of all three. Properly classifying employees and ensuring that they remain compliant with federal and state tax rules is crucial to avoid costly and disruptive mistakes at tax time.

Services for businesses

BUSINESS ADVISORY AND SUPPORT

Management Accounting and Supporting

Systems and workflow reviews

Cash flow and budgeting reporting and analytics – learn how to understand your business numbers

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Data coding and bank reconciliations

Data entry and reconciliation of supplier invoices and statements

Preparation of payment schedules

Generation of bank ready files for release of payments to suppliers

Remittance Advice issue to suppliers

Liaison with suppliers on query and problem resolution

Preparation of Taxable Payments Annual Reports

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND DEBTOR MANAGEMENT

Raising and issuing of invoices to your customers

Recording and reconciliation of payments received

Liaison with customers on query and problem resolution

Issue of regular statements to customers

We can follow up your outstanding debts, ensuring that cash is in your account faster!

FORENSIC BOOKKEEPING, FILE REBUILDS, AND BACKLOG WORK

Files in a mess, or needing a complete rebuild? We can work methodically through your pile of paperwork to unravel your mess and get your record keeping back on track and compliant as quickly as possible

PAYROLL SERVICES

Establishment and management of payroll records

Payroll processing (weekly, fortnightly, monthly)

Preparation of bank ready files for release of payments to employees

Superannuation reporting and processing

End of financial year Payment Summaries and ATO reporting

Bookkeeping

It’s our passion, but probably not yours. We relieve the burden and mystery of bookkeeping, empowering business owners to clearly focus on what they’re most passionate about and what they do best.

Freedom

You’re one of the brave souls who took a risk and started a business. You knew the world needed you, or at least your community. You’re a dreamer, a doer, a job creator, one of the small business owners that build the backbone of our country. You took the road less traveled.

The Journey

Maybe you worked for a big company and decided to venture out on your own. Maybe you’re now leading the family business. Or maybe you just never wanted to look back and regret not pursuing your dream. Whatever the case, you took the first step and your business has gained traction. You love showing up for work, you’re making money, and people are jumping on board to be part of the success. You’re confident in your business, but you’re not exactly sure how you got here. You’re not entirely sure where you’re headed, either.

The Problem

Now it seems you’re getting lost in the details and something has to give. Things are starting to slip through the cracks and it feels like your business is managing you.  Maybe this describes you:

Stuck behind closed doors in piles of paperwork instead of growing your business.

Constantly checking your bank account to see how you’re doing.

Frustrated, wondering where all your money’s going.

Stressed by late notices or penalties and interest from missed payments.

Sacrificing more and more of your family time in order to straighten it all out.

Reasons You Should Hire a Bookkeeper

We talk to a lot of small business owners like you. What we hear over and over and over again is that you love what you do but you hate the demand of the back-office tasks. It’s one of the biggest complaints of people who decide to start their own business.

Similarly, though, most business owners feel like they can’t afford or don’t need to hire a bookkeeper. You stay in the place of pain because you think it is just one of those things that comes along with owning your own business. But that’s simply not true! The benefits of hiring a bookkeeper extend to almost every level of your business. In fact, we think it is a decision you can’t afford NOT to make.

Save Time

We mentioned this already but let’s face it: As a business owner, time is one of your primary concerns. You want to be spending less time on the clerical tasks and more time on making your business thrive! You want to be able to take a vacation, spend time with your family, and maybe even spend time working on your golf game. That isn’t just for retirement!

Reduce Errors

Maybe you’re passionate about making pies or maybe you create and sell gadgets for ukulele players. Whatever your passion, it’s probably not logging receipts, paying bills, and filing taxes. When you hire a bookkeeper that does LOVE those tasks, you can gain confidence in your numbers because they know what they’re doing and they’re doing it well. Catching errors can keep you from hassle down the road with your state or federal taxes. They can also save you from late payments, and the list goes on.

Save Money

We have already mentioned the money that can be saved by ensuring your bills and taxes are filed correctly and on time. But there’s more! Using a bookkeeping service that keeps your books up-to-date monthly means that they will be able to spot trends in your spending, catch duplicate or unnecessary charges, and point out places where your spending isn’t in line with industry trends.

THE GUIDE TO SMALL BUSINESS BOOKKEEPING

Every business needs a solid bookkeeping system to keep track of their expenses. In this guide, we will show you how to set up bookkeeping that works best for your business as well as some of the most common mistakes you may encounter along the way.

Bookkeeping vs. Accounting

While bookkeeping and accounting sound like interchangeable words, they actually refer to different financial processes. Bookkeeping is the organization of all your business-related transactions. This makes it easier when it comes time to do accounting, which is the interpreting and analyzing of said transactions.

In order to keep your bookkeeping experience stress-free, make sure you follow these guidelines when creating your financial strategies:

Create a Business Plan: Before going forward with your bookkeeping process, make sure that you have a good business plan in place. Different entities have different requirements when forming and filing taxes. Use our free Business Plan Generator to help you get started.

Set Up a Separate Bank Account: Setting up a business bank account helps you establish professionalism, protects your personal assets, and gives you access to finance professionals. More importantly, having a separate business bank account helps simplify the accounting and bookkeeping process. You can track spending, deposits, and plan business budgets. Obtaining a business credit card can also help with this goal.

Choose Method of Accounting: Your method of accounting determines how you report revenue and expenses to the IRS. There are two different accounting methods: cash accounting and accrual accounting. The main difference between the two options is the time in which you recognize your expenses and income.

Cash accounting records income when you receive it and expenses when you pay them. This means that your business would only track cash as it exchanges hands so that you can always know how much money you have on hand. However, the downside to cash accounting is that it doesn’t give a clear picture of your unpaid liabilities.

Accrual accounting, on the other hand, keeps track of earnings regardless of whether or not cash is exchanged. For example, if your business needs to pay a freelancer, you would record the expense as “accounts payable” once the service is complete, not when you actually pay them. Likewise, any incoming revenue would be recorded as “accounts receivable” as soon as the services are complete, rather than when you receive the cash.

Establish a Bookkeeping System: In order to keep up with your business finances, you must establish a method of documenting and preparing your records. You can do your bookkeeping manually (e.g. pen and paper, Microsoft Excel), or you can use an accounting program to keep track of your expenses.

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Some Important Reasons Why You Need To Hire A Criminal Defense Lawyer

CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS

Being accused of a criminal offense is the last thing people think about and can have serious repercussions. If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime, having a law firm that’s experienced, skilled, and respected behind you can be the difference in your case. There’s simply too much on the line in these situations not to have the very best attorneys working for you.

criminal defense firm. In other words, 100% of our practice is dedicated to drunk driving and criminal defense. No case is too big or too small for our firm to handle.

A person facing jail time should have the best possible representation – period. attorneys are widely regarded as some of the best defense attorneys in Waukesha and are skilled in handling cases ranging from OWI (drunk driving), sexual assault, possession of child pornography, child enticement, possession of heroin, delivery of a controlled substance, domestic violence, homicide, traffic offenses, and all other criminal matters. firm utilizes a team approach in which cases are reviewed by multiple attorneys in order to maximize all of experiences and to provide clients with different strategic viewpoints. This way, clients get the benefit of having a team of criminal lawyers working on their case, rather than just one.

Honest Case Assessments and Straightforward Answers

At law firm, you’ll receive an honest assessment of your case and straightforward answers to your questions. believe that’s the only way people can make good decisions about their case and the only way to practice law. Creating false hopes or unrealistic expectations doesn’t serve anyone. If your case is better off being resolved through the plea negotiation process, we’ll tell you that. On the other hand, if there are legal challenges that can be raised or proof problems in your case

CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS

If you’ve been arrested, facing county jail or federal prison, a criminal indictment or are the potential suspect of a criminal investigation, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney. You deserve competent and knowledgeable representation.

AGGRESSIVE CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Facing criminal charges can wreak havoc on your life. Protect yourself and your rights with a team of passionate and highly skilled criminal defense attorneys. If you find yourself in a situation involving criminal accusations in surrounding areas

What are my rights when I am stopped by the police?

The rights you have depend on the circumstances you find yourself when speaking with a police officer.

Your Rights at Home

If a police officer knocks on your door, you do not have to answer. If they have a warrant signed by a judge then you must allow them entry or they will use force to enter your residence. However, if they are simply attempting to speak with you or someone else in the house without a search warrant, you do not have to open the door or even communicate with the officers. Your constitutional rights are strongest in your home. There are certain instances where officers can enter without a warrant, such as when they believe there exists an emergency exception to the warrant requirement. This could occur if the officers are in hot pursuit of a suspect or there exists an immediate threat to a person or substantial property interest.

Your Rights in the Community

If you are walking down the sidewalk a police officer can approach you and begin a conversation. The officer will likely refer to this as a consensual encounter. The key word to focus on here in “consensual.”  In order to detain you and stop you from walking away the officer must have reasonable suspicion that you are engaged in criminal activity. Officers often use what they hear from you or see during this “consensual encounter” to develop the reasonable suspicion to legally detain you. Here is the key question for you to memorize, “Am I free to leave?”  This simple question can be asked as many times as you desire until answered by the officer. If they answer that you are free to leave then, you should. If they say you are not to leave then at this point they must have reasonable suspicion to formally detain you. In the streets they will often answer that no, you are not free to leave, and they will still continue to detain you. You are likely being held in violation of your Fourth Amendment Rights.  However, it is not advisable to get into a legal argument with an amped up, armed officer who is also possibly looking for a justification to inflict violence on you. If any criminal case were to proceed to court, you could ask your attorney to file a motion to suppress any evidence obtained against you. If no criminal case proceeds you could file a civil lawsuit alleging your rights were violated.

EXPERIENCED DEFENSE ATTORNEYS

If you have been charged with a serious crime, you simply cannot afford to put your future in the hands of an inexperienced defense lawyer. If you do, your rights and your future will be at grave risk. Criminal Defense is sometimes necessary.  If you have been charged with a crime, you need a trusted and experienced criminal defense lawyer to represent you. Whether or not you are guilty of the crime, you have legal rights.

You have the right to representation and a fair trial.  Therefore, a criminal defense attorney can fight for justice on your behalf. Without the right legal advocate in your corner, you could be wrongly prosecuted.  In fact, you could serve a longer prison sentence or pay higher fines.  A criminal conviction can be life-altering, affecting your ability to get work.  As well as, affect your ability to participate in the full range of civic life.

Working With Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys

When you are first charged, your criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your legal rights.  Also, criminal defense attorneys will guide you through arraignment and posting bail.  If a plea bargain is on the table, your criminal defense attorney can give you guidance on how to make the tough decision of whether to accept it, negotiate it or reject it altogether.

CRIMINAL DEFENSE PRACTICE

When you hire to defend you on any criminal charge, conduct a thorough investigation of what happened, looking carefully at police reports and questioning all relevant witnesses to craft the most effective defense. We’ll look at how police gathered evidence against you, confirming that there was probable cause for any search, seizure or arrest. If irregularities are found, we’ll seek to exclude evidence improperly obtained or dismiss charges, if appropriate.

experienced defense lawyers defend people charged with all types of crimes, including:

Homicide—murder, manslaughter and involuntary manslaughter

Theft crimes—grand and petty larceny, shoplifting, misappropriation of goods, embezzlement

Drug offenses—possession, trafficking, cultivation and conspiracy

Sex crimes—sexual assault, rape, molestation, public lewdness, and prostitution and soliciting

DUI/DWI—driving under the influence, driving while intoxicated

Firearms—Gun violations

Physical Assault and battery, robbery, burglary

Arson

White collar crimes

Computer and internet crimes

Things to Consider in Hiring A Criminal Defense Attorney

Anybody with a law degree can throw together a website and say they handle criminal cases. So how can you figure out the right criminal defense lawyer for you? Whether you hire firm or not, here are some things to think about when evaluating a criminal defense firm

How Many Years of Total Experience Does The Attorney  – Lawyer – Have?

Just because someone has a law degree doesn’t mean that they know what they are doing in court. A number of lawyers go into criminal defense law straight out of law school They don’t have any experience trying cases or knowing much more of the basics of criminal law. How can a consumer have more confidence in choosing their criminal attorney?

Do They Have Experience Prosecuting Cases?

Many of the best criminal defense lawyers used to be prosecutors. Why? Working for the district attorney’s office is one of the best training grounds for trial lawyers because they are forced to try many cases. They are trained by experienced prosecutors, and are shown what techniques the prosecutors use to win cases. The way you get better at trying cases is to try a lot of them.

How Many Years of Experience Do They Have in THE SPECIALTY OF Criminal Defense Law?

Prosecuting a criminal case is wildly different than defending it. It is a jarring transition for many prosecutors, and it takes time to get used to the different strategies used in preparing and defending a case.

Is the Lawyer Available At A Moments Notice  -24-7-365 ?

When an emergency happens, you want access to your attorney 24-7. Does the law firm have an experienced, knowledgeable attorney to help you at a moment’s notice?  How available is the lawyer to your calls and your concerns?

Criminal Defense Attorney

Getting Cases Dismissed has an incredibly high rate of obtaining dismissals, dropped charges, and not-guilty verdicts. Having a criminal defense attorney with this type of record makes a difference

Suppressing Illegal Evidence: Law enforcement must follow the law if they wish to punish you for breaking the law. The Constitution requires that the prosecution not use evidence that was acquired through illegal action.

Treating All Clients with Respect: Some people assume that anyone accused of a crime is guilty and also must be a bad person. That’s just not true, and we know it. treat clients with respect and dignity.

A lot will be going through your mind and you’ll have many questions. From misdemeanors, felonies, and highly complex financial crimes, criminal defense attorney can explain what you are up against, review all your options, and craft a defense plan that puts you in the best possible position.

If your fundamental civil rights have been violated by a law enforcement agency, you may be unsure of how to protect yourself. You need a strong force by your side to help you assert your rights.

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Conditions That A Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon Treats

What is a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?

If your child has musculoskeletal (bone) problems, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon has the experience and qualifications to treat your child.

What Kind of Training Do Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeons Have?

Pediatric orthopedic surgeons are medical doctors who have

  • Graduated from an approved medical school
  • Graduated from an approved orthopedic surgery residency program
  • Completed additional subspecialty training in pediatric orthopedics

Pediatric orthopedic surgeons treat children from the newborn stage through the teenage years. They choose to make pediatric care the core of their medical practice, and the unique nature of medical and surgical care of children is learned from advanced training and experience in practice.

Unique Aspects of Orthopedic Care for Kids

Sometimes kids thought of as small adults. When it comes to bones, that is definitely not the case, and there are special considerations that need to be taken into consideration when treating orthopedic issues in children.

Children are growing, often very quickly, and the areas where bone is growing most quickly, called the growth plate, can be susceptible to injury. A child’s bone is also more elastic (it can bend, without breaking all the way through) and has a capacity to remodel over time.

While healing of a growth plate injury often occurs very quickly because of the rapid growth occurring at that site, a doctor will need to ensure the growth plate was not damaged or if special treatment of that growth plate is needed.

Unrecognized injuries to a growth plate can lead to growth abnormalities such as early closure of the growth plate, or abnormal growth of the bone.

It’s also important that any age-specific lifestyle concerns or long-term issues related to a pediatric orthopedic condition are considered, especially when weighing treatment options. For example:

  • Does the child need to restrict her activities? If so, how so and for how long
  • Should she avoid specific sports, running, or jumping?
  • Will the condition affect further growth and development?
  • Is the condition likely to lead to long-term problems or require further treatment?
  • Could this lead to any future limitations?

What Kind Of Problems Do Pediatric Orthopedists Treat?

Pediatric orthopedists diagnose, treat, and manage children’s musculoskeletal problems. A child’s musculoskeletal problems are different from those of an adult since their bodies are still growing. A child’s response to injury, infection, or deformity can be different than what is often seen in adults.

Some of the problems pediatric orthopedists treat include:

  • Limb and spine deformities
  • Gait abnormalities
  • Broken bones
  • Bone or joint infections or tumors

When should I take my child to a Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon?

Pediatric orthopaedic surgeons diagnose and treat a variety of problems with the arms, legs and spine. Problems walking, crooked limbs, legs of different lengths, curves in the spine, broken bones, bone/joint infections or tumors, and birth defects of the hands or feet are just some examples of the conditions that may require a pediatric orthopaedic surgeon.Children with complex pediatric problems such as developmental delay, skeletal dysplasias, or other syndromes are usually best managed by a multidisciplinary, medical-surgical team.

Why does my child need a specialist?

Children are not just small adults. Their growing bones pose different challenges than those of adults. Sometimes, what looks like a problem in a child is just a variation that the child will outgrow over time. Some common pediatric problems don’t even occur in adults. Pediatric orthopedic surgeons, their offices, and supporting staff are all equipped to deal with kids and families to create a comfortable, patient-focused and family-friendly environment.

Helping Kids Feel Well

One of the most important things parents and other family and friends can do for kids with an orthopedic ailment is learn how to support their child. Injuries, illnesses, and medical conditions can cause anxiety and depression in kids, and knowing how to support children is an important role for parents to take.

Do not be afraid to ask for help from your child’s orthopedic specialist or their pediatrician. These individuals have vast experience working with kids who have faced similar problems and should be able to help you navigate what is likely new territory for you.

In the same light, don’t hesitate to tell medical professionals how you think your child can be helped. You know your child better than anyone else—their fears, their anxieties, their comforts—and sharing this with their medical team can help them take better care of your child.

Some simple tips to help with a child facing an orthopedic treatment:

  • Encourage your child to ask questions and address those questions seriously
  • Reinforce brave behaviors with praise
  • Don’t say “it won’t hurt” unless it truly won’t
  • Be supportive, comforting, and encouraging—a hug and a smile go a long way
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What You Should Know About Car Dealer Finance

Things To Know Before Buying a Car

Car buying can be a stressful experience, but there are things you can do to make the process go more smoothly. Before you even step foot on the dealer’s lot or take a vehicle out for a test drive, consider doing some research to arm yourself with the important information you need to be a smart shopper.

Check Out Your Credit Report

Buying a car is a big purchase, so financing should be at the top of your to-do list before you even start looking at potential vehicles. If you don’t already know your credit score, it helps to find out. The higher the credit score, the better chance you have of negotiating a lower interest rate on an auto loan.

Review Your Loan Options

Now that you have your credit in great shape (or at least improving), it’s time to think about how to finance your next vehicle.

Discover Your Car’s Trade-In Value

If you currently have a car that you plan to trade in, don’t wait for the salesman to tell you what it’s worth. Do some research on your own to get a good sense of its value.

Determine Your Desired Payment

It’s important to understand the factors that impact your auto loan terms and fees so that you can figure out what monthly payment you can afford.

How To Buy A Used Car

They are a great option, however, many people shy away because they are not educated about the steps to buying a used car. They are worried they’ll buy a lemon or get suckered into a bad deal.

Getting some advice for buying a used car is a great first step. To help you out, we’ve put together this used car buying guide. It packed with great tips, advice and important considerations.

Why Should You Buy A Used Car?

We’ve all heard the saying before – the minute a new car is driven off the lot, it depreciates in value. Just how much does it depreciate? According, a new $30,000 vehicle depreciates just over $2,500 in the first minute!

On average, a new car depreciates about 11% the moment it’s driven off the lot, and it continues to depreciate between 15%-25% each year. So for a $30,000 car here is how much depreciation will cost :

Cost Of Depreciation After Year 1 : Depreciates about more than $5000 – your new $30,000 car is now only worth $25,000.

Cost Of Depreciation After Year 5 : Depreciates by almost $18,000 – for a loss of about 60% of the car’s original value.

When Is Buying A Used Car A Good Option?

Let’s start by saying that buying used is not for everyone. Buying a used car is very different from buying new. There are a lot more considerations and even risks involved. However, there are also a number of advantages to buying used.

things to know about the online used-car seller

could benefit from the broader shift to online shopping accelerated by the pandemic. With the economic uncertainty and turmoil in the car industry, however, its business model could become more challenging

Car dealerships are under pressure as consumers both delay big-ticket purchases and limit non-essential travel, if the dealerships are open at all,

market has shown more activity in recent weeks, with the biggest deal of the year pricing at the higher end of its price range

price of at $22 a share was upped from a previous range of $18-$20. The company is offering about 21.25 million shares, for a market capitalization of around $2.48 billion.

Coronavirus impact

Despite the focus on online sales, was not immune to pandemic-related declines in business. “The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted us in a number of ways, including an adverse impact on our e-commerce operations,” said in its prospectus.

Important Things You Should Check on Your Car Regularly

Owning a vehicle is not cheap. Looking beyond the price tag on any new or used car to what’s required to keep your vehicle operating safely may make your eyes pop out.

What’s more, fuel tends to be the costliest annual expense for drivers at an average of $1,500 for a compact vehicle, the notes. Also, routine scheduled maintenance costs – oil changes, replacing air filters – can range from $500 to $700 a year. The estimate doesn’t include the cost of replacing old tires or purchasing winter tires.

The Oil

The oil in your car keeps everything running smoothly, and your car can’t run without the right level of oil. You can check your oil level by simply pulling out the dipstick and seeing where the oil level is. Note the colour of the oil on the dipstick: is it black or gold? If it’s black, you should take your car in for an oil change. On that note, get oil changes on a regular basis as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer or mechanic.

The Tire Pressure

A tire pressure gauge is an affordable and easy-to-use tool that can prevent a flat tire. Be mindful that tires that are not inflated properly can cause blowouts while you’re driving and may lead to an accident. They can also leave you stranded on the side of the road, especially if you are not subscribed to a roadside assistance program. Additionally, the wrong level of inflation affects your fuel efficiency. It’s important to check your tire pressure regularly and be aware that the right tire pressure may change based on the outside temperature. Check with the tire manufacturer for the right pressure.

The Brakes

Don’t wait for that screeching sound that tells you the brake pads are getting old. Having your brakes checked regularly by a pro keeps your car safe and on the road. If there is one thing on your vehicle you don’t want to take for granted, it’s the brakes.

Things to Check Before Buying a Used Car

So, you’ve settled that all-important question of whether to buy a new or used car. Buying used can be a great way to get on the road without the hefty price tag of a new vehicle. But, how do you know a pre-owned vehicle is everything it was chalked up to be in the online ad?

Vehicle history

Get as much information as you can from the current owner and then do your own research. Running the VIN (vehicle identification number) through a paid service like CARFAX will tell you if the car has been in an accident, if there are any liens on it, and if there are any recalls on the model.

Rust or paint damage

Take a walk around the car and keep an eye out for any rusty spots or paint chips. Small, localized rust patches aren’t necessarily a deal breaker because they can be fixed fairly easily. If there are places where the metal is totally rusted through, you might want to reconsider the purchase.

Frame issues

While you’re walking around the vehicle, you should also look for problems with the frame. Is the car sitting level on the ground? Is there anything hanging from the undercarriage? Pay close attention to the bumpers and look inside the trunk and hood for new bolts or warping that could indicate a recent accident.

Under the hood

The engine is the most important part of any vehicle. With the car turned off, pop the hood and visually inspect the engine for: fluid leaks, corrosion and cracked hoses and belts. Check the oil and transmission dipsticks for discolouration — oil should be light brown, transmission fluid should be pink or red.

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Kitchen Tile Flooring

Why So Many Homes Prefer Tile Flooring

Mostly hot, dry weather means sand and dirt travel indoors easily. That’s one of the primary reasons why houses even in modern times, opt for tile flooring, even when they have so many other options available to them such as carpeting. Also, carpeting absorbs heat and makes the room feel warmer. When it’s time to vacuum, it’s really difficult to get rid of dust and sand stuck in your carpeting. But sometimes, people use a combination of both. For instance, they may use carpet flooring in the rooms which do not have windows or other sources through which sunlight or dust could come in and use tiles in other rooms.

Tiles are also preferred because they help in keeping your house cool by reflecting the sunlight coming into the house instead of absorbing it.

Although many consumers around the globe use carpeting, tiles are preferred over any other type of flooring in hot, arid climates. Apart from the weather, there are many other reasons for that.

Tiles Flooring Choice

It’s quite an economic choice to make. Carpeting, wooden flooring or laminate flooring are more expensive when compared to tile flooring. Also, tile is very durable and requires fewer repairs as compared to others. Considering the time, effort and money needed for changing the flooring in your house occasionally, carpeting and wood flooring is an expensive hassle. Many agree it’s better to stick with the most durable option. In case of a tile breaks, it’s very easy to replace that particular block of tile with a new one.

Tiles also offer a lot of options, looks, and pattern possibilities. So if you want wooden flooring in your house but can’t install it because external factors do not support it, you can go for wooden tiles. These tiles give the perfect wooden look to your house. Along with that, it will cost you almost half of what it would have cost to install wood flooring.

Along with wooden patterns, tiles come in a lot of other patterns, varieties, and colors. When choosing tile flooring, you have the maximum number of options to choose from and can easily select flooring that you will love for years to come. Rental property managers can also find the durability and style that will endure through many tenants. Tile’s lasting value represents one of the most significant advantages of tile flooring over the others kinds of flooring.

Tiles are also very easy to maintain. So you don’t have to worry about staining them. Just wipe it with a wet cloth and you are done. For regular cleaning, damp mopping does the trick.

If you plan to sell your house or put it up for rent, then you are sure to get a better resale value for tile flooring houses instead of any other type of flooring. This is because the houses that use tile flooring are more attractive and durable.

Kitchens

Believe it or not, now hardwood is now the preferred flooring surface for kitchens. This is followed closely by tile. Hardwood is often preferred as it’s more in style, easier on your feet, makes space look larger and easier to clean.

Hardwood is often less expensive, too. You can read more about it in this article: Kitchen floors – hardwood vs. tile. But, either way, it should, if you are remodeling, hardwood or tile is the way to go w/ 90% of homeowners preferring one of these two surfaces (10% prefer laminate, vinyl, linoleum or cork).

If you are just preparing your home for sale, and/or not doing a full remodel, your choices may be limited due to height of cabinets and appliances, so definitely involve a flooring expert before your run into an issue where you might either lock your appliances in or worse yet find that they don’t fit.

If you are selling your house, I would recommend you consult with your Realtor and/or stager before making changes here. It is easy to spend a lot of money in the kitchen and not get back your return on investment.

Bedrooms

Homeowners seem to be split on this one. Slightly more than half (56%) prefer hardwood for the bedrooms and 44% prefer carpet. This preference often has been influenced by homeowner’s experiences growing up and whether they are concerned about their feet being cold in the morning. But, either way, virtually all home buyers will NOT keep the carpet you have in your bedrooms.

They will either replace them or they will add hardwood (or refinish if you have hardwood underneath the carpet). Buyers do not like to live with other people’s carpets as there are usually odors and/or germs in there…or a perception that they are present. They seem to be even more concerned if they have young kids and/or babies.

How do porcelain tiles add so much to the value of your home?

The first and easiest answer is that they are tremendously attractive. With tile, you can create any number of looks, from sleek sophistication to charming, cozy cottage. It creates a focal point of any room. The look and feel of porcelain tiles instantly and effectively conveys quality, simplicity, and a hint of opulence at the same time. Any prospective home owner who walks into a room and is greeted by beautiful tile floor mosaics will fall in love.

Beyond surface appearances, high quality porcelain floor tiles are very durable and resistant to impact, chemicals, water absorption, staining, and scratching. Maintenance is very easy, particularly with a well-glazed tile. This also makes it a very hygienic choice in any room, particularly the kitchen and bathroom. This is certainly a selling point with any home buyer.

Reasons Why Vinyl Plank Is Better Than Ceramic Tile

Vinyl planks are taking over the flooring industry, and for good reason! As technology advances, so does the way the flooring we install in our homes is engineered. If you’re weighing the pros and cons of both options, here are some reasons why vinyl plank is a better choice than ceramic tile:

Cost.

Vinyl plank is much more budget-friendly than ceramic tile. Depending on the type of tile you are choosing, ceramics can cost as much as hardwood or high-quality carpet. Materials aside, it costs 40% less to install vinyl plank than it does to install ceramic tile.

Faster and easier.

Installing ceramic tile is labor-intensive and takes a lot of time, so you will most likely need a professional if you want it installed properly. Vinyl plank is DIY-friendly and 60% quicker to install than ceramic tile.

Durability.

Both vinyl plank and ceramic tile are known to be durable flooring options. However, ceramic can chip and crack over time. Ceramic tile is more prone to damage (think dropping something heavy on the surface) than vinyl plank. Vinyl plank is also a better option if you have children or pets.

Aesthetic Appeal

Vinyl planks are offered in many looks that are similar to tile. The photographic technology allows vinyl to mimic the appearance of ceramic (or any flooring style you could possibly want) in a way that’s nearly indistinguishable from the real thing. Plus, this added layer allows the planks to withstand extended use.

Less mess.

Prepping to install ceramic tile is a mess. Because you must rip up the flooring and make sure the surface is even before installation, there is an excess of dust involved in the process.

No wait time.

With vinyl plank, there is no waiting for the floor to cure or dry. You can live on it right away!

Not as permanent. Once ceramic tile is installed, it can be very difficult to remove. If you’re someone who likes to change trends and home design elements, floating vinyl plank floors are easier to take out and replace.

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Services Offered By Loading Services

Why Should I Choose Ocean Freight for My Shipment?

No matter what business you’re in, it can be tough to pursue the international markets while still keeping your shipping costs manageable. If you don’t have the added challenge of a tight deadline, ocean freight can be a good way to keep costs down while still using a reliable shipping method. Ocean freight gives you the benefits of worldwide capacity and reliable sailing times – and the best part about it is that it’s much more cost-effective than air freight for international shipments. Take a look at the reasons you may want to choose ocean freight for your next international shipment.

When Would I Choose Ocean Freight over Air Freight?

When choosing a freight method for your shipment, there are three factors you should keep in mind: cost, speed, and reliability. Ocean freight is your best option when you need to ship on a smaller budget and don’t mind when it reaches its final destination. Ocean freight does tend to be less reliable than air freight, but works well if you have a few days to spare. In situations where you require shipment on an exact timeframe, air freight is the only way to go. It wins in terms of reliability and speed.

Things To Consider When Choosing A Freight Forwarder

Freight forwarders are a dime a dozen. A quick Google search will show that there’s no shortage of companies ready to ship your goods internationally. But, there’s a vast difference between any freight forwarder and a good freight forwarder.

If your business is new to international shipping, you may not understand the importance of freight forwarding. But the truth is, the success of your international business is heavily dependent on choosing the right freight forwarder.

The wrong choice can result in poor logistics management which can deter the success of your global expansion. On the other hand, choosing the right freight forwarder can make all the difference when it comes to international shipping.

To help your company find the right freight forwarder, read on. The article below highlights what your business must consider when choosing a freight forwarder for its needs.

1. EXPERIENCE

When it comes to freight forwarding companies, few factors are more important than experience.

Experience will determine how your freight forwarding partner will deal with shipping issues like:

  • Dockworker strikes
  • Port shutdowns
  • Cargo reroutes
  • Customs
  • Warehousing

These potential issues are common in international shipping. A freight forwarder with years of experience will know how to deal with such issues so your goods continue to their destination unhindered.

2. A NETWORK OF GLOBAL AGENTS

How your international shipments are handled at both your origin and destination port is the responsibility of your freight forwarder. As international shipping requires considerable logistics, the right freight forwarder for your company is one that has the right network of global agents.

When choosing a freight forwarder for your business, make sure their network and connections work in the destination country your goods will be shipped to. This will keep the flow of information running smoothly, confirming that your products are arriving in a timely and secure manner.

3. RANGE OF SERVICES

Each industry has specified requirements when it comes to international shipping. When choosing a freight forwarder, confirm that they have the services you need. This will ensure all your international shipments go smoothly.

The services that a freight forwarder should provide includes:

  • Tracking inland transportation
  • Preparation of import and export documentation
  • Packing and storage
  • Inventory management
  • Booking cargo space
  • Customs clearance
  • Negotiating freight charges
  • Freight consolidation
  • Insurance

When doing your research, acquaint yourself with the type of services your desired freight forwarder provides. They should not only provide services that align with your supply chain processes but also guide you through the documents required for freight forwarding.

4. CREDENTIALS AND CERTIFICATIONS

When sourcing a freight forwarder for your company, ask to see their credentials and certifications. Certifications and credentials will inform you whether or not a freight forwarder has the specialized training and security requirements to handle your goods.

While you’re confirming credentials, ask for references as well. A list of references providing unsolicited praise for a freight forwarder is a good indication that they have the experience and expertise to manage your international shipping requirements.

5. CUSTOMER SERVICE

Like any other industry, customer service is important. A freight forwarder with excellent customer service will provide the support you need to expand internationally. This is particularly crucial if this is your first foray into the overseas market.

Exceptional customer service ensures you always have direct access to the agent managing your cargo.

Factors To Consider When Choosing An International Shipping Company

Given the complexities in ocean freight shipping, it’s important to select an international shipping company that specializes in the shipment type, route, and mode you’ll be requiring.

These are some of the most important factors for your shipment you should consider:

  • Will you be shipping FCL or LCL?
  • Will you be transporting your merchandise via ocean freight or air freight?
  • Do you require a door-to-door service or will a port-to-port, door-to-port, or port-to-door service suffice?
  • Which country are you exporting to or importing from?
  • How well do you know the import/export laws and customs clearance procedures of your shipment’s origin and destination countries?
  • How flexible is your supply chain and do you want to be able to track your shipment?
  • How quickly do you need a quote?

Let’s take for example that you will be shipping FCL shipments to China on a regular basis. You should consider working only with an international shipping company who not only has a physical presence in China but also specializes in sending FCL shipments to China. This will come to be extremely handy — especially given the language barriers.

Reliability

A ship being off schedule is not uncommon. For most businesses, a load that’s a few days late isn’t going to do much harm. However, for businesses in some industries it may be costly. Ocean carriers operate on weekly schedules. So, if a ship misses a cutoff at a seaport, it may mean that your shipment will be delayed for quite awhile.

Timing is important but so is the safety of your cargo. When you choose a carrier you’re trusting that company with thousands (sometimes millions) of dollars worth of your product. Accidents do happen and some incidents are unavoidable (inclement weather, war, etc.). However, you’ll want to make sure that the carrier you choose has an exemplary safety record and up-to-date insurance. If reliable transit is high on your priorities list, you’ll want to do your homework before you choose a carrier.

Why Is It Important To Choose The Right International Freight Forwarder For Your Business?

When products are shipped Internationally there are so many important processes that are involved to get goods delivered through to end customers.  Because of this, freight forwarders have access to a broad network of logistics providers along the supply chain. This allows them to connect services between integrated modes of transport, from road, sea, rail and air.  They will have existing relationships with trucking companies, port services, International shipping lines, customs agents and marine insurance brokers around the world.

Think of your freight forwarder as a long term business partner.  In doing so, you must choose a freight forwarder that understands your exact requirements and that can provide you with the level of service that you require in your business.  Very large global forwarding companies normally deal with very large shippers and therefore don’t focus on providing a high level of service to a smaller shippers. On the other hand, small freight forwarders may not have the tools, resources or networks required to service very large volume shippers.

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Whats The Use Of A Home Inspection

PREPARING FOR A HOME INSPECTION

If you are selling your home and a potential buyer has requested a Home Inspection, there are some things that the seller should do to ensure that the Home Inspection goes well and doesn’t hinder the chance of a sale. I am asked many times what are the things you should do to prepare your home when putting it up for sale. Before you even begin to do your home stage the property for potential buyers you should consider having a Pre-Listing Home Inspection.

Clean Up The House

It may seem like a given but you’d be surprised how many home owners tend to forget this vital part of the inspection. A dirty and unkempt home may give the Home Inspectors decides how well a home has been maintained. Replace burned out bulbs so that the lights won’t be reported as “Light is inoperable” that may suggest an electrical problem. As well, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace dead batteries.

Watch The Clock

More often than not home inspectors are early. You should be prepared for the home inspector to arrive 15 – 30 minutes before the prearranged inspection time. Many inspectors will begin their inspections on the exterior of the home while waiting for the client so it’s important that you be ready when they arrive. If possible, leave the home 30 minutes prior to the arranged time.

Don’t Turn Off The Utilities

Many components of the home, including the the stove, the dishwasher, the furnace and air conditioning are part of the inspection and the Home Inspector will need to test each one. If the services aren’t on and the components are not tested, it may be detrimental to the closing of the home.

Keep the Furnace and Water Heaters Clear

The Home Inspector will need access to these areas. If the Inspector cannot access them easily they cannot inspect them effectively, if at all. Think of it as Home Staging.

Keep Pilot Lights Lit

If pilot lights are out, the Home Inspector will not reignite them because of the liability involved and it’s not within the scope of their inspection. Unlit pilot lights will affect the inspection and may ultimately affect the sale of the home if these vital components are not inspected.

Provide Access to Attic and Garage

Standards of Practice requires that the Inspector evaluate the attic and garage. The Home Inspector will not move furniture, boxes or any other obstructions to access these areas.

Schedule Your Own Inspection

If your home is older, or you suspect that there will be several problems to correct, it’s a good idea to have your own inspection performed. This will not stop your buyers from having their own inspection. However, if you have your inspection performed first, and you repair any items your inspector notes, then it’s unlikely that your buyer’s inspector will find anything further. Taking care of items before the buyer’s inspector finds them helps your buyers to have peace of mind that the home they are buying is in good condition. This could help prevent them from backing out of the contract or asking for significant concessions.

Your home inspection is an important part of the process of selling your home. If you can have it inspected before you have a contract, you may save yourself work and money by knowing your home’s problems ahead of time. Fixing them on your own can be less expensive than having to have them repaired by someone else after a buyer’s inspection. But, if you can’t have your own inspection, at least be certain that you are ready when the buyer’s inspector comes to call.

MOST COMMON HOME INSPECTION ISSUES

Here are some of the most common issues & defects that home inspectors find, so that you know what to look for when you are getting your own home inspection!

ROOFING PROBLEMS

Roofing issues are very typical for home inspectors to find during home inspections. This is because homes are very susceptible to roof damage, especially homes are ten or more years old.

ELECTRICAL WIRING ISSUES

Monitors usually find stripped wires, inappropriate associations, underpowered breakers, uncovered wiring left over from past fixes or remodels. These issues are viewed as a wellbeing risk and ought to be tended to right away.

POOR ATTIC VENTILATION AND INSULATION

Homes that are older in age typically have issues with ventilation and energy efficiency. Home inspectors often find attics that are insulated yet not ventilated, which makes them too hot in the summer. This lack of ventilation can make it harder to keep the house cool, while also potentially leading to mold and other issues.

POOR GRADING AND DRAINAGE AROUND THE HOME

Drainage issues are typically not noticeable until an inspector is doing an inspection, because it doesn’t rain often and continuously enough for it to be a huge threat to homeowners. However, poor drainage is a serious issue. If water pools around the base of a home and cannot escape, it can cause mold, as well as issues for the foundation of the home that could cause it to collapse.

PLUMBING PROBLEMS

Plumbing problems are fairly common, and also very serious. Small visual defects like leaks, slow drains, and low water pressure can all mean really big underlying problems. Plumbing issues are costly to repair, which is why inspectors take great care in inspecting the system.

Mold Inspections and Home Maintenance

A mold inspection starts as a home inspection, which is a non-invasive, visual examination of the home’s interior and exterior, and its various systems and components. 

The scope of a mold inspection requires particular knowledge of HVAC systems, roofs, the exterior, and plumbing systems. Musty odors, moisture intrusion via a roof or plumbing leak, or even evidence of suspected mold can warrant a mold inspection.

Once mold gets a foothold, it cannot always be completely eradicated, so the best cure is prevention. Homeowners must be vigilant about checking for leaks both inside and outside, and making sure their home is free of conducive conditions – the main culprit being water. For instance, firewood stacked up against the side of the house can retain moisture from dew, rain and snow. Leaks should be fixed as soon as possible. And indoor humidity and moisture should be controlled by making sure appliances, such as the clothes dryer and dishwasher, are vented properly, and that the vents themselves are operating as they should. Windows are another place prone to mold growth if the frames are old and damaged, or the seals on the panes have failed. And basements and crawlspaces are notorious breeding grounds for mold, especially if they’re used only for storage, the windows are old or damaged, and/or the area experiences occasional flooding.

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Use Shingles Roof Coating To Stop Roof Leaks

How Long Can You Expect Your Roof or Fridge to Last?

IF YOU ARE BUYING OR selling a house, odds are you’re hyper-focused on the layout, the closet space and the yard – all aspects that a homeowner can’t easily change. But another important consideration is necessary home repairs. For instance, roofs are designed to be replaced every 30 years, and appliances rarely last that long. Understanding the life span of appliances and home fixtures can help you decide when to repair and when to replace.

If you’re a buyer, you may be wondering if you can get a discount on the price if a roof is going to need to be replaced soon. The most expensive components of a home are generally the roof, electrical, plumbing, furnace and air conditioning systems. The stakes are high for homeowners because replacing any one of these systems can mean a bill of figures.

On the other hand, if you’re a seller, you might be worried you won’t be able to get a good price for your property if your roof or refrigerator is aging. Exactly how long your heating, plumbing, roof, air conditioning, water heater and other home components will last varies, of course, based on the quality of the items, how well they’ve been maintained and where you live.

So if you’re thinking of buying or selling a house and you’re wondering how long you can expect your roof, refrigerator and other appliances to last, keep these factors – and expected feature life spans – in mind.

If you’re a buyer, remember the seller has already considered the condition of the home and its appliances, says Mihal Gartenberg, a real estate agent with New York City. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t negotiate and ask for a lower price. “The quickest way a buyer can assess if the asking price reflects the home’s condition is to ask the buyer’s broker to compare its price with the past sales in the immediate vicinity,” Gartenberg says. “So, if a kitchen is old and needs replacing, but the home is the same price as a neighboring home that is move-in ready, the asking price should absolutely be negotiated down.”

What is roofing underlayement, and why do you need it?

Your roof protects your home from the elements. Pretty basic stuff, right? Less obvious are the parts that go into the whole roof system. Maybe you’ve never heard of roofing underlayment. It’s doing a lot of work for you every day.

What is roofing underlayment?

Roofing underlayment is a water-resistant or waterproof barrier material that is installed directly onto your roof deck. It is applied under all other roofing materials as an added layer of protection from severe weather.

There are three main types of roofing underlayment:

Asphalt-saturated felt

Non-bitumen synthetic underlayment. This is also known as “synthetic underlayment.”

Rubberized asphalt underlayment

Asphalt-saturated felt was the go-to roofing underlayment until about 15 years ago. That’s when synthetic products started gaining in popularity.

Commonly referred to as “felt paper” or “tar paper,” common roofing felt is made of varying blends of cellulose (natural plant fibers), polyester, bitumen or asphalt.

Basemat – the flexible base layer – is saturated with asphalt for water resistance.

Felt paper is applied across the entire roof deck. Depending on local weather, waterproof underlayment may be recommended.

Should I Repair or Replace My Roof?

When it comes to your home, an ounce of prevention is most definitely worth a pound of cure. In other words, regular maintenance is good for both your home’s appearance and your wallet. Putting off needed repairs might save you in the short-term, but it will end up costing you a lot more in the long run.

However, not all home improvement decisions are cut and dry. For example, it’s sometimes possible — and entirely acceptable — to repair a roof rather than replace it. Which route you take depends on several factors, including the type of damage and what percentage of the total roof surface is in need of repair.

When It’s Okay to Simply Replace Shingles

In some cases, replacing a few shingles is all you need to restore beauty and function to your roof. Asphalt shingles are designed to last for decades, and today’s modern roofing designs are engineered to last for as long as you own your home.

Before you decide to replace shingles, however, it’s important to have a professional inspect your roof to determine if any of the underlayment or decking is damaged. There’s a big difference between a few missing shingles lost during heavy winds and a leak that extends through the various layers of your roof. If the damage is extensive, it’s usually a better idea — and a better value — to replace the entire roof.

Patching Damaged Areas

Understandably, many homeowners wonder if they can patch a damaged or deteriorating section of roof rather than replace the entire thing. They may even opt to roof over the existing shingles instead of tearing off the old roof.

The pros and cons of asphalt roofing shingles

A significant part of adulthood and adulting is becoming a first-time homeowner. But much like with earning your first regular paycheck, there are important details that come with hitting such a huge milestone in life.

In the paycheck scenario, the critical details are income taxes and paying bills. With homes, it’s renovations. But what in the world do you know about roofing materials?

When in doubt, always start with the most popular thing amongst the adulting majority. Four out of five homeowners in the United States have chosen to cover their homes in asphalt shingles. What are asphalt roofing shingles, and how good are they when you break it all down?

The Pros of Asphalt Roofing Shingles

An asphalt shingle is a type of roof shingle that uses asphalt for waterproofing. The cost of a metal roof can be three times as much as an asphalt one. These shingles are the most affordable, not to mention accessible, out of the pool of available shingle materials. Asphalt is usually seen as the most sensible cost option in the roofing industry.

Versatile and Adaptable  

Asphalt shingles are one of the least difficult to work within the roofing world. It can be easily cut, secured, and fitted during the installment process.

Roofing Shingles Prices

If your old roof is leaking beyond repair, replacing it with a shingle roof remains the most popular and cost effective option. The average cost to install roof shingles is $4,190 – $5,740 for a 1,600 sq.ft. ranch house, including materials and labor. Cost includes 3 ft. wide Ice & Water barrier, and felt underlayment over entire roof, as well as basic ridge vent. Flashing around chimneys, skylights, dormers, etc will be extra (about $200-500)

Additional costs will be incurred, if you need rotten roof boards or plywood replaced (about $2 per sq. ft). Also if your roof has valleys, ther will be additional cost of about $15-20 per 1 linear foot of valley length, which pays for extra Ice & Water shield, waste a extra labor incurred by the roofer. Total installation cost may vary depending on your location, roof complexity and the contractor you hire. Below we explain it all in great detail.

Across the US, the average price for roof shingles is $3.20 – 3.40 per square foot, including materials and installation. This is equivalent to $320 – 340 per roof square (1 roof square = 100 sq.ft.) You can use Roof Shingles Calculator to get a more accurate estimate for your home.

Prices for basic 3 tab composition shingles start at $0.80 per square foot. Laminated or architectural shingles cost $0.85-0.90 per square foot. The most popular architectural shingles sold in the US are Timberline HD by GAF.

How much is a bundle of shingles?

Asphalt roof shingles are sold in bundles. There are 3 bundles per square. 1 square of roof area covers about 100 sq.ft. However, the precise number of bundles you need to buy really depends on your roof size, slope (roof pitch), and how cut up it is. For example, a 1600 sq.ft. roof will need at least 16 squares or 54 bundles of shingles (rounded up from 53.3).