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Luxury Home Builder Transform Your Dream Into Reality

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Home

What is the average price per square foot to build a home

the following are residential construction costs:

Single-family home

Low (per square foot) – $290

High (per square foot) – $780

Multi-family home

Low (per square foot) – $205

High (per square foot) – $455

Pricing can vary depending on if you hire a general contractor or choose the owner-builder route. When asking for pricing from various contractors and friends, we’ve found the low-average for a single-family home to be around $250 per square foot.

How much does it cost to build a kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedroom, or master bedroom?

While there are many variables when building a room, the following chart give the basic, low-end cost with no customization to typically build a room:

Cost by Room

Kitchen – Minimum $25,000

Bathroom – Minimum $15,000

Living Room – Minimum $125 per square foot

Bedroom – Minimum $125 per square foot

Master Bedroom – Minimum $125 per square foot

What are some additional upgrade costs that people might consider?

“Upgrades typically add 10-15 percent to the baseline cost. Some upgrades will add even more. There are many different upgrades that people consider in the home-building process:

Appliances, such as refrigerators, stove hoods, dishwashers, ovens, washing machines, and dryers. Different brands, materials, and features have different costs. The low-end appliances typically have white glazing and are from brands like Kenmore or Whirlpool. Kenmore and Whirlpool have a range of options, including more luxury-like appliances with stainless steel. Brands like Bosch, Viking, Sub-Zero, and KitchenAid are typically considered more upper-end appliances and cost more.

Flooring. A lot of companies make economy flooring with a certain millimeter and a luxury model with a thicker type of flooring. Sometimes companies will additionally include underlayment materials, such as sound proofing and moisture barriers. Interlocking flooring, such as the currently popular vinyl and laminate flooring, is typically thicker and an upgraded cost. There are pricey luxury vinyl interlocking systems that sometimes even compare at price to the typically highest costing flooring – exotic hardwoods and travertine tile.

Trims. The basic type of trim usually is a manufactured or pre-primed wood. An upgraded trim would be hardwood or stain-grade wood.

Plaster finish. When finishing drywall, basic would be a level 4 finish. An upgrade would be a level 5, venetian, or faux finish.

Cabinetry. American-made cabinets typically cost two to three times more than cabinets made in China. There are particleboard, solid wood, and many other materials used for cabinets, which often drive the cost.

Countertops. Entry-level counters are typically laminate and post-formed tops. Mid-level counters would be prefabricated quartz or granite. Marble, quartz, and Corian usually cost more as they come in sheets or slabs and require onsite templating and fabrication.

Swimming pools, lanais, entertainment areas, views. Upgrades to build a pool, an expansive outdoor space, indoor movie theater, or vast windows to take in the view can all add to the cost of building a home.

“Additional upgrade costs typically include the following:

Upgraded waterproofing in showers

Upgraded moisture management (moisture barriers or flashings) on exteriors

Upgraded cabinets and vanities

Upgraded flooring

Upgraded lighting

Central air conditioning with energy recovery ventilators

Upgraded insulation and home sealing

Smart home wiring and technology

Solar panels

Upgraded, energy efficient windows

Upgraded exterior fiber cement siding and trim

Upgraded exterior fasteners (i.e. stainless steel)

Upgraded roofing (i.e. metal)

Exterior features, such as lanais, pergolas, decks, pools, and outdoor kitchens

What are the additional unforeseen costs after the build begins?

“When doing a remodel, one of the big unforeseen costs is hidden wood rot and termite damage to beams or other structural members. Mechanical elements, like plumbing or electrical, might add to the cost of a remodel. A home might have faulty electrical wiring; faulty wiring could be due to improper workmanship, damaged wire insulation, and corrosion.

PREPARE TO BUILD A NEW HOME

YOUR CURRENT HOME | CHECKLIST

Take some time to think through the good and bad of your current and past homes. We created a checklist you can use to walk through your home and highlight each area you would like to carry over or improve in your new home.

YOUR BUILDING LOT

Know answers to these questions early to prevent issues and help guide your house plan selection.

– What are the views you want to capture from inside your new home?

– Does the lot face north, south, east, or west?

– How close are your neighbors?

– What are your property setbacks?

– Does your neighborhood have HOA requirements?

– Are there unique zoning laws in your area?

YOUR BUDGET | COST ESTIMATES

Knowing the costs associated with building a new home will help you make the necessary budgetary decisions. This article by, Home Advisor, does an excellent job detailing the factors to consider when building and the average cost range per square foot. You can even gather building cost estimates for your zip code.

YOUR TIMEFRAME | WAIT TIMES TO START A PROJECT

Understanding the market will help you set realistic expectations for how long building a new home will take, and when you should plan to take specific steps.

KNOW THE TERMS | ARCHITECTURAL STYLES & ELEMENTS

Taking time to understand common terms and styles used in residential architecture, you will be armed with the knowledge needed to clearly articulate your goals and wishes.

Custom Home Design: Tips for Designing Your Dream Home

Start simple.

You don’t need fancy software to begin making decisions about your custom home plan. Really, all you need is a pencil and a piece of paper. Sketch your ideas. Brainstorm. Make lists of features you want each room to have – just get your ideas out of your head and onto paper. Even rough sketches can help your home design team understand what you want.

Think about the future.

Do you have or plan on having children in the coming years? Do you have aging parents? If so, you’ll need to think about accommodating close family members in many different scenarios, such as returning college students, accommodating grandchildren and grandparents, taking care of elderly parents – even accommodating extended family for holiday occasions. Likewise, if you’re hoping to transition from an office job to operating your own business out of your home, your custom home design should include an office or flexible space. Basically, when you think about the amenitites in your custom home plan, you are deciding what kind of family you’d like to become. Include features your future self will find handy.

Showcase and maximize the lot.

Oftentimes, those who are in the market for a custom house plan already own the property where the home will be located. If you already know where your custom home will be situated, be sure to consider the topography, size and best features of the lot. For instance, if your lot overlooks a naturescape, you might choose to face the living room toward the feature so your family members can watch nature in action. Alternatively, if you have a brook or stream running though your property, you might choose to place bedrooms nearest the stream so you can enjoy the beautiful sound of running water while you sleep.

Prioritize features.

Once your ideas are recorded in rough form, begin prioritizing features for your new house. Custom home design can easily exceed a budget if you let your fancies run amok. With so many luxuries to choose from, it’s important to prioritize the most important aspects of your design. For instance, if you’ve always dreamed about a box window in the kitchen where you can grow herbs, you may want to prioritize that over installing a line to facilitate a gas stove.

Consider function and flow.

As you and your designer begin playing around with where various rooms should be located, consider how your final design will flow and how your family might function in each space. For instance, to reduce noise in sleeping areas, it’s wise to place bedrooms away from the communal areas of the house. Likewise, if you’re the kind of family that tends to gather around the kitchen, an open floor plan with easy flow between the living room, kitchen and dining area will suit you well. This kind of design also allows for excellent flow between rooms

What you need to know about building Inspections

Knowing as much as you can about the condition of the property before you buy will help you avoid problems and extra costs down the track. The best way of doing this is to get a pre-purchase property inspection report – commonly known as a building inspection. The following information explains what you need to know about building inspections.

What is a pre-purchase property inspection report?

It’s one of the different types of building inspection reports you can get done. As the name says, this building inspection report is the one you get before you buy a property. Sometimes referred to as a ‘standard property report’, a pre-purchase property inspection report is a written account of the condition of a property. It will tell you about any significant building defects or problems such as rising damp, movement in the walls (cracking), safety hazards or a faulty roof to name a few. It is usually carried out before you exchange sale contracts so you can identify any problems with the property which, if left unchecked, could prove costly to repair. Throughout this web page we will refer to the report as a ‘building inspection report’.

Why do I need one?

There are three good reasons why you should get a building inspection report done before you buy a property:

so you will know in advance what the problems are

so you can use the information to try and negotiate a lower price for the property i.e. you may have to pay to repair some of the problems

so you can get specialist advice about any major problems and how they will affect the property over time.

Choosing the right person to inspect the property

You should always use a suitably qualified person, such as a licensed builder, a surveyor or an architect to provide a professional building inspection report of the property you are thinking of buying. These professionals will know what to look for, and will see through any cosmetic improvements covering up faults that might otherwise be missed by an untrained eye.

Contents

The format and amount of detail in the report will depend on the type of property, its size and age, its condition and the reporting process used by the consultant or organisation preparing the report. These factors will also influence the cost of the report.

Custom Home Builder

What does a Base Price in a New Construction Home Mean? 

What is the Base Price?  This is everything you need to know about base prices when building a custom home.  Builders use a base price to establish a starting point for pricing. With so many variables involved when building a new home,  it’s important to begin with a base line of included features…IE the “Base Price.”

Builders strive to have a low base price…a low base price means a lower purchase price for the buyer.

If you speak to several different new home builders, you will likely notice that the base price is not the same from builder to builder. This is because each builder includes a different list of included features. For example, if you build with Homes, we include granite as a standard in some of our larger plans, but this is may not be  an include feature in some of our smaller plans. Other builders might consider this an upgrade and charge more for it. Therefor they will naturally have a lower base price since they have not included this feature as a standard.

What is not in a base price? 

Builders do not include the building homesite or any site costs in the base price. In other words… any upgrades, options or unexpected site costs are not included (IE if you hit rock while digging the basement for example).  Site costs deserve their conversation own so we will skim over it for now

Benefits of a Base Price:

One of the main benefits of working from a base price is that the builder can give a  potential buyer a final sale price quickly by adding the selected building lot and upgrades to the base price.  to get a final sale price quickly.

Here is an example of how the math works using a base price:

● Base Price with Including Features: $300,000

● Homesite Cost: $100,000

● Buyer Selected Upgrades / Options: $50,000

Total sale price of the home =$450,000

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Instant Hot Water Heaters Make Your Hot Water Ready When You Are

PORTABLE WATER HEATER

Whether you’re on the family camping trip, having a day at the lake, or swimming in the pool, sometimes you just need a hot shower. Simply attach a garden hose and you have all the hot water you need. The Triton portable water heater produces more hot water per minute than any other unit in its class. Capable of producing 1.5 gallons of hot water per minute, this heater is great for everything, from filling up a portable pool to washing your pets or showering off at the beach.

FEATURES

Easy-turn garden hose connector

Fully adjustable heat and water flow

Multi-setting shower head: Off, Mist, Shower, and Jet

Carry handle folds down for storage

Raises water temperature

Adjustable water temperature from 80deg; F to 150° F

Hang with included brackets or use free standing base

Includes hose and regulator for bulk propane tank

Approx. 11 hrs. of continuous use from one standard LP tank

SPECIFICATIONS

72 in. shower hose

34,000 BTU burner

Maximum flow: 1.5 gallons/min – raises water temp 38° F

Minimum flow: 0.5 gallon/min – raises water temp 102° F

15 lbs w/ stand

Overall Dimensions: 12 in. x 15 in. x 4 in.

Requires at least 25 PSI water pressure from input hose for proper flow

Uses 2 D batteries for ignition (not included)

Warranty: 1 year

Somewhat apprehensive as we got a bad part out of the box. It was in the mail the day I discovered it was defective. Went to local hardware picked up the $4.00 part, leaving the next day. Had I remembered to put the batteries in it would have worked right away. The wife would have been happier also.

CONVENTIONAL VS. TANKLESS WATER HEATERS

Last week we looked at some of the differences between electric and gas water heaters. Today we’re diving into another set of options that some folks don’t even know exists. If your unit is on the fritz and you’re looking for a new water heater with installation, there are a couple of alternatives beyond conventional gas and electric. We’ll look at conventional vs. tankless water heaters below, along with one other option that might surprise you.

CONVENTIONAL WATER HEATERS

As we saw when comparing conventional gas and electric tanks, today’s conventional tank models are more energy-efficient than they used to be. This translates to about 7% less in water heating bills.

A conventional water heater runs constantly. It keeps water stored, hot, and ready to use. The downside of this is that when your stored hot water is gone, it takes time to heat up more. If you’ve ever been the third or fourth person to shower in the morning, you may have experienced this.

TANKLESS WATER HEATERS

Tankless water heaters offer a slightly different approach to hot water storage than conventional models… they don’t do it. A water heater without a tank will heat your water only when you need it. The moment you turn the “H” handle on your faucet or shower is the moment your water gets hot. (To be honest, as plumbing contractors, we have a soft spot for how efficient these models are

Tankless water heaters will save you around 30% on water heating bills. They do this by only heating water when you need it. Even in a single year, that can mean a lot of money back in your pocket. Just like conventional tanks, you can supply tankless water heaters with your choice of gas or electric. A tankless water heater will have a higher upfront cost, but there are many benefits to this style of water heater

How a Storage Water Heater Works

Fundamentally, a water heater is an appliance that converts energy to heat and transfers that heat to water. It’s connected to a cold water supply pipe and has an outgoing hot water pipe—or system of pipes—that supplies heated water to faucets and appliances.

A gas-fueled storage water heater heats water by means of a burner beneath the tank. Natural gas (or propane or kerosene, in some cases) is piped to a gas valve. Depending upon the age of the water heater, it may be served by a couple of different types of valves

A thermostat that detects the temperature of water in the tank regulates fuel delivery to the burner, which is ignited by a pilot light or spark ignition. A vent collects toxic emissions from the burner and pipes them up through the tank, out the top, and normally up through the roof. Some newer, high-efficiency water heaters have fan-assisted vents that can be piped out through a wall.

Here is a terrific video that shows all of the parts of a gas water heater. It even includes what you would see if you cut-away your water heater and looked inside. If nothing more, this will give you a clearer idea of why it’s a good idea to drain some mineral-heavy water from the tank once or twice a year

Because the tank is under pressure, hot water exits through the hot water outlet at the top. When the hot water leaves, cold water enters through a diffuser dip tube that extends down inside the tank. The cold water pipe normally has a shutoff valve. A magnesium or aluminum anode rod utilizes the principle of ionization to minimize the water’s corrosive elements, which can significantly shorten tank life. The larger the anode, the longer a tank is likely to last.

HVAC and Plumbing Tips for First-time Homebuyers

Buying a home can be exciting, especially when it’s your first one. You’ll finally have a place to make your own, but it is important to not overlook the working parts of the property. Your HVAC and plumbing systems help make your home comfortable and livable, so it is important to learn about the history and the condition of them before you make your first home purchase.

Inspection

Start off with a professional inspection of both your HVAC unit and your plumbing system. A typical home inspection during escrow includes your homes major systems, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. Sometimes the current homeowner may have a record of a home inspection prior to listing the house on the market. This is important to ask the realtor about.

History

When it comes to an inspection, you may get some history behind the systems of your potential home, but it is not always every single repair or issue that your plumbing or HVAC has had along the way. You should consider asking the realtor if the owner has maintenance and repair records for your systems

Also remember to keep your records once you buy the home, so if and when you decide to sell it, you can provide this information. The history of the system also means it’s age. A typical HVAC system usually lasts between 15 to 25 years. Keep this in mind, because if your system is about 10 years old or older, you may need repairs or a replacement sooner than you think.

Location

When moving into your new home, it is important to know the location of your systems and all the important parts. This will include the main water shut off valve for your plumbing, water heater, HVAC outdoor unit, thermostats, and much more

HELPFUL WATER LEAK DETECTION GUIDE

If there’s one sound that no one enjoys hearing in their home, it’s that signature “drip, drip, drip” that signals to a leak somewhere in the house. A lot of people find that noise to be more troublesome than the actual leak itself, but this is not a good position to take. A leak can represent a real problem to your home, and here’s why that is, and what you should do about it.

Your Early Warning Signal

A leak itself may be easy to set aside because it seems like such a small thing. But unfortunately, a leak is just a symptom of a larger, ongoing problem. Ignoring the leak is like admitting that you’re not interested in solving a problem cheaply and efficiently, but would rather pay more money and spend more time dealing with a very serious problem.

A home may lose anywhere from 2,000 to 20,000 gallons of water on an annual basis just because of leaks. If those leaks occur in pipes that run throughout the home, this may also result in water damage to ceilings or walls where continued leakage erodes the building materials over time.

Find the Problem

Dealing with a leak first means knowing where it is and what the severity of the problem. In the best case scenario, you’ll know the leak is at your faucet because you’ll see it there, and discover that maybe all you need to do is tighten the fixture somewhere with a wrench.

Prevention Helps

Sparing yourself from a costly and expensive repair is avoidable if you take some preventive action beforehand. Dealing with leaks as soon as they happen is definitely a good idea.

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Make Your Business An Instant Hit With Bookkeeping Outsourcing Services

HOW TO START YOUR OWN BOOKKEEPING OR ACCOUNTING BUSINESS

Every business needs a bookkeeper/accountant. Business owners today realise more than ever before that if they are not careful about their finances, they soon won’t be in business. As it can be costly for smaller businesses to appoint a full-time bookkeeper or accountant, outsourcing this function has become very attractive to business owners and a great opportunity for bookkeepers or accountants to start up their own bookkeeping or accounting businesses.

The importance of bookkeepers and the role they play

A client not only wants to pay an independent bookkeeper or an accountant to balance their debit and credit transactions. The client will be paying you for your expertise, accuracy, loyalty, honesty and integrity, and your ability to handle their affairs with confidentiality and professionalism.

Although a vast range of accounting software packages is available to process captured information quickly and accurately, the software is unable to detect where transactions have been allocated incorrectly, omitted or have been duplicated. A lack of internal controls in a company could lead to fraudulent transactions. The bookkeeper or accountant plays a vital role in the accurate reporting of the affairs of the client.

Consider your skills

What skills do you need? Which of these skills do you already have? What do you need to do to get those skills which are essential in your business? Your starting point will be to get yourself well educated. The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) offers valuable qualifications in this area. The ICB offers four main study programs which include the Accounting Programme which has qualifications that range from the level of a junior bookkeeper through to a financial accountant.

Consider your resources

Which resources do you currently have? Think about equipment, your home office, your talents and skills as well as personal characteristics. The experience which you have gained (which can be added to your CV) is an important marketing tool. Clients want to know that you have experience in their line of business. Years worked in the corporate or business world are never wasted, and through this you would have gained valuable knowledge and experience which can be used in your own business.

Bookkeeping and accounting

If you’re getting paid, congratulations! You’ve created something that people wanted enough to trade money for. To make sure your business stays healthy, and help you focus more on the business than on keeping the lights on, you will want to keep records of money moving in and out of your business. Welcome to the fascinating world of bookkeeping and accounting.

What is bookkeeping? What is accounting?

Historically, there was a distinction between the functions of bookkeeping and accounting, but the distinction is weakening as more of both functions are done by computers rather than people.

Bookkeeping is recording details about transactions to the books (ledgers) of the company. It has historically been seen to be work done by detail-oriented specialists, but not something which required a higher degree.

What are “books?”

Your business keeps many types of records. One category of these, which describes the movement of value into and out of the business, is called “books.” The books track value, not necessarily always money, but for convenience’s sake we’ll talk about money rather than the long list of valuable things a business can keep records about

The physical manifestation of the “books” is different at every business—at some businesses it is a literal book with a physical ledger of transactions, at others it is an Excel file, at others it is distributed among multiple different accounting systems.

VIRTUAL BOOKKEEPING: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Small business owners can find it challenging to keep an accurate record of their financial transactions. Bookkeeping can take up a lot of time. It also requires a certain degree of specialized knowledge. You could consider delegating your company’s accounting work to one of your employees or even think about hiring a part-time accountant. However, a virtual bookkeeping service provider could offer a better solution.

What is virtual bookkeeping?

Virtual bookkeeping has the following attributes:

The person who keeps a record of your company’s financial transactions will not work from your office. Instead, the accountant will function from a remote location. You may never meet your virtual bookkeeper in person. All your interactions could be through messaging apps or video calls.

An accounting software package will maintain your company’s’ accounting records. QuickBooks Online and Xero are popular options. However, there are several other good alternatives, as well.

The virtual bookkeeping service that you hire will usually provide you with monthly bookkeeping for your bank accounts, credit cards, loans, and payment processors. Typically, virtual bookkeepers charge their clients a fixed monthly sum.

How does virtual bookkeeping work?

Nowadays, more and more small businesses are using virtual bookkeeping services. This practice has gained popularity for several reasons. Switching to a virtual bookkeeper can provide entrepreneurs more time to focus on their core activities. Additionally, cloud accounting, as virtual bookkeeping is also known, can help to boost your company’s profitability.

Let’s understand how the virtual bookkeeping process works

The first step would usually involve a video call when you would discuss your company’s accounting assignment. At this stage, it’s a good idea to tell the person or the firm that you intend to hire about the financial aspects of your business. How many bank accounts do you have? Have you taken any small business loans on which you are making regular payments?

What does a virtual bookkeeper do?

Every month, they would furnish you with a set of reconciled accounts as well as financial statements. It would be the virtual bookkeeper’s responsibility to categorize all your transactions and to keep your financial records up to date.

Reasons To Explore A Career In Accounting

A career in accounting has a lot to offer!

Whether you’re planning your accounting career or exploring the career pathways open to you as a young professional, accounting is a field you need to take note of.

You’ll be in-demand

No matter where you live or how the economy is doing, there is going to be a need for accountants. That’s because governments, businesses and not-for-profit organizations (and sometimes individuals, too) continually need accountants and bookkeepers to manage their budgets, deal with taxes, do financial reporting, complete audits…and the list goes on.

Through good times and bad, accountants help companies of all sizes create strategic plans to maximize success and limit chances of failure. Without accounting it would be very difficult for businesses to analyze their financial performance, which would make it harder for organizations to make smart decisions for the future.

You can make it your own

Accountants work in all kinds of places – you might find them in various departments within local, provincial/territorial and the federal governments; corporate and commercial businesses; charities and not-for-profit organizations; professional associations; or educational institutions.

Accountants may actually work full-time within an institution or they may work for multiple clients at the same time (either on their own or as part of an accounting firm). It depends on where the demand is and what your preference is. What’s nice is that there is often enough flexibility for you to shape your career into what you want it to be.

Incredibly Effective Bookkeeping Tips for Small Businesses

According to a survey stat shared on www.waspbarcode.com, only 40% small entrepreneurs feel that they are aware of business accounting. Being a successful business owner and running a trade takes years of expertise, well-adopted strategies, and organized mindset. You cannot expect your business to run smoothly if productivity gets hampered or in case there’re accounting loopholes. This is where the significance of a good accounting practice comes into play

This is pretty evident that the bookkeeping industry is pretty progressive and one can rely on its expertise. But you still need to have a fair knowledge of accounting, based on your business model. Self-awareness is the most effective tools when it comes to managing business accounts seamlessly.

Manage all major expenditure separately

Create a separate fund for office repairing, product maintenance, office supply materials, inventory expenses and the likes.  This will help you maintain the books of account in a smart and better way. Since major expenses are the ones that are of biggest priority, prioritizing this aspect is a sign of good bookkeeping.

Prepare yourself for expenses related to tax

There can be no debate on this matter that paying tax is a mandatory practice. It is to be followed by each and every business house. Thus, it is also quite evident that the amount of tax to be paid at the end of the year is supposed to be kept aside separately, so that paying the taxable amount doesn’t prove to be a challenging or intricate task for the business owner. A well-planned preparation along with the availability of enough funds to pay all taxes seamlessly is something which is absolutely essential for healthy bookkeeping.

Consider bank reconciliation periodically

Bank reconciliation is one of the most important practices to be considered when it comes to bookkeeping. Always keep track of your bank account and see whether it matches the amount recorded in the book. Consider reconciling your bank statements every month so that there remains no chance of any discrepancy in the long run.

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Find A Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

How to Become a Lawyer: Career Guide

Some lawyers pursue careers as consultants, judges, or politicians, but most lawyers work in the legal field, advising or representing individual citizens, companies, or governments. Suited to ambitious, rational individuals with excellent research, writing, and speaking skills, lawyer jobs typically require a juris doctor (JD) degree and successful performance on a state bar exam.

Lawyers may serve as legal defense or as prosecuting attorneys. They usually specialize in areas of law such as criminal law, family law, constitutional law, or business law. Other law specializations include personal injury, worker’s compensation, contract, and disability or social security. Some lawyers advocate for human rights, filing court actions that can lead to potentially impactful official orders.

Career Description, Duties, and Common Tasks

Lawyer jobs and duties vary depending on employer, field, and work context. Some professionals primarily provide legal counsel, while other lawyers represent clients regularly in court. Other possible work contexts include private practices, law firms, government organizations, and corporate offices. Possible roles include public interest lawyer, government prosecutor, in-house corporate counsel, or public defense attorney.

Whether tasked with representing their clients in private legal matters or in court, lawyers often spend considerable time researching and preparing cases. These duties may begin with interviewing and counseling clients concerning their legal rights, responsibilities, and decisions. Lawyers may also research and analyze legal problems and interpret existing laws, precedents, and regulations. These professionals usually prepare and present cases using persuasive arguments and evidence.

Steps to Become a Lawyer

EARN AN UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE

For admission to law school, aspiring lawyers usually need to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Most law schools do not require specific major prerequisites. Students interested in intellectual property law may benefit from an undergraduate degree in math or technical science to prepare for the patent bar examination. Law schools often look for top students with a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.

PASS THE LAW SCHOOL ADMISSION TEST (LSAT)

Students applying to law school must pass the LSAT, a standardized test that evaluates reading and verbal reasoning skills. The test takes half a day and is offered four times per year at many locations. Students interested in fall admission should take the test in October or June, although December scores are usually accepted. LSAT scores weigh heavily in admission and financial aid decisions.

EARN A LAW DEGREE

Lawyer requirements typically include a graduate law degree (usually a JD) from an accredited law school. Most states require that aspiring lawyers obtain this degree before taking the bar exam. Law school typically entails three years of full-time study, and many graduates complete a one-year clerkship afterward.

PASS THE MULTISTATE PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY EXAMINATION (MPRE)

Required by all U.S. states and jurisdictions except Wisconsin, Maryland, and Puerto Rico, this two-hour ethics exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions and is a prerequisite for the bar exam.

PASS THE BAR EXAMINATION

Aspiring lawyers usually must pass the bar exam in their future state of practice. Passing rates for the bar exam drop as low as 40% in some states, so solid preparation is crucial.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ATTORNEY

Domestic violence is one of the most serious charges you can face. People are put in jail every day for domestic violence. In fact, if you are charged with a crime of domestic violence you have probably already been arrested, taken to jail and likely held overnight if not longe

No two cases are the same and we take on each case with a new outlook. These cases involve thorough investigations and defense to benefit the client. We are dedicated to fighting for your needs and wants.

WHAT IS A DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CRIME?

The term “domestic violence” does not in itself signify a crime. In other words, there is no such thing as simply being charged with “domestic violence” in the state

Instead, “domestic violence” is a designation that serves as an enhancement to several other crimes when they are alleged to have been committed by one “family or household member” against another.

UNFORTUNATELY, THE TERM “FAMILY OR HOUSEHOLD MEMBER” IS DEFINED BROADLY IN STATE:

“Spouses, domestic partners, former spouses, former domestic partners, persons who have a child in common regardless of whether they have been married or have lived together at any time, adult persons related by blood or marriage, adult persons who are presently residing together or who have resided together in the past, persons sixteen years of age or older with whom a person sixteen years of age or older has or has had a dating relationship, and person who have a biological or legal parent-child relationship, including stepparents and stepchildren and grandparents and grandchildren.”

Criminal Defense Attorney

you should know that you are at an important point in your life. Facing criminal charges is a major event, and the results can drastically change the course of your life from this point forward. If you’ve known anyone who has faced criminal charges, then you probably already know that the road ahead will be difficult at best.

since 1984, and during this time, I have built up a reputation for honesty and integrity to go along with my vast criminal defense experience and knowledge of the federal and state legal systems.

While looking for the right attorney to stand at your side, know that there are numerous lawyers and law firms that will make promises and guarantees that are simply too good to be true. Often, those who are talked into hiring these types of lawyers and law firms will eventually face disappointing results, not to mention a string of broken promises.

Whether the charges and accusations against you are true or not does not matter. You need to hire a criminal defense attorney or law firm that will stand beside you every step of the way. More importantly, you need an attorney or law firm that is not afraid to tell you like it is regarding the truth of the circumstances, the charges, and potential outcome you might face, whether the truth if what you want to hear or not.

Put My Decades of Experience to Work for You

If you choose my firm to represent you, this is exactly the type of criminal defense you will receive. I believe that anything less is simply unacceptable. Put my more than 35 years of legal and criminal defense experience to work for you. No matter the charges, you will receive my utmost dedication and the full extent of my firm’s resources to ensure that you get a fair fight – you will get a chance to defend your rights, your freedom and your future with me and my firm standing beside you every step of the way.

Best Lawyers: Criminal Defense

has a higher concentration of people with JDs than anywhere else in the country, which means you’re probably out of luck if you want to pick a fight with the homeowners’ association over landscaping rules—chances are the HOA president litigates much higher-stakes matters for a living. Also, you should really keep your voice down if you must tell that lawyer joke while riding Metro. Finally, it means this list is pretty tough to compile.

How Best Lawyers Are Chosen

begin the process with a survey of the nearly 1,000 attorneys recognized on our 2016 list, asking whom they consider the best among their peers. We then added more research and reporting, contacting still more lawyers and reading up on notable recent successes of the local bar. We’ve trimmed several categories as well as increased and added others since the last go-round, so this isn’t a repeat of what you’ve seen in years past.

Criminal Defense

Pardons and clemency require experience. council member of the criminal law section of the State Bar and chair of the bar’s annual Capital Defense Workshop, is an expert in the clemency process. The political environment is better than it has ever been for an applicant seeking a pardon, a grant of clemency.

Nonetheless, give it best effort every other year. Though it’s impossible not to miss some deserving folks, what follows is a directory of much of Washington’s top legal talent in 21 practice specialties, as voted by area lawyers

How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Defend Someone Who Is Guilty?

There’s no topic as complicated and subjective as morality. It has been a controversial discussion for centuries, and it will continue to be so until the end of time, most likely. What is right, and what is wrong? What does it mean to be a good person? What is evil, and how should we deal with it? Questions like these have bewildered philosophers and thinkers for a very long time, and there is never a conclusive answer. Perhaps the most obvious representation of the ethical dilemmas of morality is being a lawyer. Some people frown upon and even despise lawyers because they ask themselves a seemingly simple — yet much more complicated than most believe — question: How can a criminal defense lawyer defend someone who is guilty?

Factual guilt versus legal guilt

One thing you need to understand, a trial isn’t supposed to show whether a person actually did it or not. This is what we call factual guilt, and that is never the purpose of a trial. It’s about whether the prosecution can prove if you committed the crime, and that is known as legal guilt. This is why criminal defense lawyers go above and beyond to prove their client is innocent; they don’t care about your actual guilt or innocence, because it’s not their job. They are there to preserve the integrity of the system and keep it honest, and it’s their duty to present a fair case.

It is not their job to determine guilt

Like it or not, a defense attorney’s job isn’t to determine guilt. That job is assigned to the prosecution, who is charged with doing everything within their capabilities –– and within the boundaries of the law –– to prove a defendant is guilty. Lawyers explains that a defense lawyer’s job is to defend you to the best of their abilities and to do everything they can to get you acquitted. Whether it’s a DUI, assault, theft, or any other charge, their job is to defend their client and prove them innocent.

Protecting the innocent

People constantly ask this question, “how can criminal defense attorneys defend guilty people?” But no one ever asks, “How can a prosecutor condemning an innocent person?” Or what if that innocent person was found guilty and unfairly sentenced to death or years of imprisonment? This is why it’s imperative for the defense lawyers to viciously defend their clients. At the end of the day, who can really tell if a person is guilty? Most of the time, there weren’t any witnesses, and the evidence can lie. A lawyer is supposed to uphold their calling and do their best to defend the person because they might just be innocent. There have been hundreds of cases all over the world where people were found guilty, only to have that sentence revoked decades later after new evidence emerges and technologies arise. By then, it becomes too late. The person is either dead or served too many years in prison to be a normal human being. This is the importance of defending the defendant until the final moment.

Self-preservation

Think of it this way, when a lawyer defends their client to their best abilities. This is also done out of self-preservation. We as humans are capable of good things, but that doesn’t mean there is no place for self-interest. If that same lawyer who defended an alleged guilty person was framed for a crime or wrongfully arrested, they would want the same rigorous defense, because it’s their right.

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Pros And Cons Of A Cat Veterinarian

What skills do you need to be a vet?

Being an animal doctor is a challenging, demanding and ultimately rewarding job. You’ll need to learn how to diagnose, treat and manage a variety of illnesses and conditions in many different species of animals. It’s a path that demands a great deal of compassion for both animals and for their owners and a background in the sciences.

Whether you have always wanted to work with animals or a mid-career change has you weighing your options, before registering for school you should assess exactly what skills you need to be a veterinarian.

What Does a Veterinarian Do?

Veterinarians may work in private practices, farms, zoos, shelters and animal hospitals. They care for a wide variety of animals, diagnose illness and injuries and provide education to pet owners on proper animal care and nutrition. They may care for domestic pets, livestock and wild or exotic animals. They often perform surgeries and contribute to research that helps animals and people.

Skills Needed to Become a Veterinarian

Veterinarians need to have a variety of skills to offer the best care possible to their patients and clients, including:

  • Attention to detail: Veterinarians need to be methodical and analytical. They must be able to interpret data and think logically to diagnose illness and injury.
  • Compassion: Veterinarians deal with people who may be distraught about a beloved pet’s death or illness. They must be able to empathize with an animal’s suffering and show care and compassion.
  • Physical strength and stamina: Veterinarians need to lift and move animals during examinations and surgeries and stand for long hours.
  • Technical and scientific aptitude: Veterinarians use technical machinery and have to interpret information from X-rays, reports and blood tests.
  • Excellent communication skills: Veterinarians have to be able to describe sometimes complicated information to members of the public when they may be emotionally upset. They have to clearly explain home care instructions for medicine doses and follow up care in a way that pet owners will understand. They need to write detailed notes and often give their expert opinions in presentations, speeches and reports. 

Communication Skills:

Veterinary Assistants work on the frontlines connecting vets, pets and pet owners. Good communication skills help them send clear messages while listening carefully to pet owners’ questions and concerns. Vet Assistants are responsible for answering phone calls, booking appointments and providing pet owners with important animal care information.

An important part of joining a veterinary clinic or hospital is having good working relationships with the entire veterinary team. Your coworkers will include vets, vet technicians and other Veterinary Assistants. Having a good attitude can help make your interactions with others productive, and help keep everyone on the same page to avoid messy misunderstandings. Nonverbal communication is also important. A confident posture and a smile can go a long way!

Empathy Skills:

The best Veterinary Assistants know how to engage with pet owners in a genuine and respectful way. You must be able to interact with people from all walks of life and help them feel comfortable. Vet Assistants often encounter clients that are worried, or distraught about the health condition of their pets. It is a Vet Assistant’s duty to understand and sympathize with how the clients are feeling and offer reassurance and support.

Empathy skills can also help you work with the many animals that you’ll meet. By understanding their stress and fear, you can use a comforting, relaxed and assuring attitude to calm them down, which puts them in a safer position to receive treatment.

Passion for Animals

The most important skill is a passion for animals and a commitment to the health and well-being of animals. The future veterinarian cannot just own a dog or cat; he must have desire to care for the pet and keep it healthy and happy. Veterinarians must also have a natural curiosity about other species, such as domestic farm animals or exotic species that live in the wild.

Academic Competencies

All veterinarians need outstanding competency in math, science, language and research and a commitment to lifelong learning. They need to keep informed of new scientific developments, quickly understand new information on procedures and drugs, and how to use them appropriately when treating their patients. They must be willing to take continuing education classes and attend conferences in their areas of specialization. As with physicians for the human population, they need to read articles in veterinary journals, understand the benefits of new drugs and meet with representatives who provide new types of medical equipment and supplies for the clinic.

Stress Tolerance

Veterinary technicians must be calm in emotional situations. Veterinary technicians move back and forth between different sets of clients, with each set visiting the veterinarian for dramatically different reasons. Therefore, clients will be experiencing very different levels of emotion.

Respect for Authority

Veterinary medicine is not coded or regulated in the way that human medical practice is. There are multiple options for treating any ailment with each option having its own devoted supporters advocating for its use. While veterinarians consult with veterinary technicians frequently in the course of developing a treatment plan, the chain of command remains. A veterinary technician must be follow the veterinarian’s orders without argument or delay. It is imperative that veterinary technicians recognize and abide by the proper chain of command.

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How To Sell Your Used Car In Car Dealer

New Car Buying Tips & Advice

Buying a new car is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be a difficult one. The average person will buy 10-12 cars in their lifetime. Preparing yourself and doing your homework is the key to being able to make the important decisions with total confidence. Once you’ve decided on the car you will buy or lease, you will need to be able to determine what is a good price. This is where it can get very tricky.

M.S.R.P. – The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, commonly known as the List price or window sticker, is the price set by the manufacturer. This is typically the price that the new car dealer would like you to pay. Although the overwhelming majority of new cars are sold at less than the M.S.R.P., some dealers will hold out for this price on a very hot-selling vehicle that is in high demand and limited supply.

Dealer invoice price – Every manufacturer sends an invoice to the dealer for their vehicles as soon as they are delivered to the dealer. The dealer will typically pay for the vehicle via a prearranged line of credit. Commonly, the dealer will start paying interest charges from the first day onwards.

Hold Back – Most manufacturers help subsidize the interest charges and marketing/advertising that a dealer incurs by paying the dealer a holdback amount, after the vehicle has been sold. This amount typically ranges from 2.0% to 2.5% of the invoice amount. Dealers will rarely consider this when negotiating a new car deal

Maximum dealer margin/profit – The difference between the M.S.R.P. and the dealer invoice price is the maximum dealer margin/profit that the dealer has to work with when negotiating a deal.

Dealer and buyer goals – The dealer’s goal is to negotiate a deal as close to M.S.R.P. as possible and the buyer’s (your) goal is to negotiate a deal as close as possible to the dealer invoice price.

Actual dealer margin/profit – The amount over the dealer invoice price that is finally negotiated between the dealer and the buyer (you), is the dealer’s actual dealer profit/margin, before sales and overhead expenses.

Dealer overhead and bottom line profit – From the actual dealer profit/margin amount the dealer has to cover the sales rep and sales manager’s salaries, commissions and bonuses. The remainder goes to the dealership to cover all other expenses, with the final balance representing the actual net profit to the dealership.

Factory-to-consumer incentives – In an effort to stimulate sales, many manufacturers will offer incentives to the consumer (you). These incentives are commonly advertised in the media and can consist of low rate financing/leasing rates, such as 0%, cash rebates, such as $2,000, or a combination of both. If a manufacturer is offering you 0% or $2,000 cash, the emphasis is on OR; which means that you cannot get 0% financing and $2,000. You have to decide between the two. In some cases, you can combine the 0% and $2,000, but not very often.

Factory-to-dealer incentives – Commonly referred to as hidden rebates. Internally these non-advertised dealer incentives can be known as marketing credits, trading dollars, factory cash, dealer cash, dealer bonuses, invoice credits, etc. Many manufacturers will use them as additional stimulus for the dealer to sell more vehicles. In some cases, the manufacturer may not want to advertise that they are offering incentives to avoid tarnishing their image, where others will use these incentives to encourage dealers to carry more inventory and thus sell more vehicles. Most dealers will factor in these factory to dealer incentives when negotiating a deal. Effectively this may allow the buyer (you) to buy/lease a new vehicle for less than the dealer invoice price.

things car dealership customers want to know

Today’s car dealers have fully focused on the task of trying to close sales as well as obtaining new prospects. This sometimes results in neglecting relationships they have with their existing customers.

In addition, customers are now more demanding, especially in the automotive industry. The nature and costs of these products make them harder to sell, therefore, deeper, updated and special techniques and tactics are required to be able to identify the kind of customers car dealers are doing business with, and enable them to make the best offer to customers.

ideas to keep the lines of communication open with customers:

Notify customers when their warranties are about to expire

Remind customers when it is time to carry out a scheduled maintenance

Send customers every product and service promotional campaign launched by the car dealership

Suggest some helpful tips regarding the car’s maintenance

Send special sales promotions during the vacation season

Consumers will highly appreciate these kinds of actions, and every act of communication from the dealer will increase customer loyalty to your car dealership. If you can prevent their car from breaking down or if you can help a customer save money, they will feel pampered and this in turn will secure their loyalty. In time, this will result in more sales for your dealership.

You can offer additional benefits to your customer with just a little marketing effort by using a system designed to facilitate it. In this way you will be able to ensure your customers continually prefer you over your rivals.

What Are Some Good Tactics To Use To Lower The Price Of A Car While Negotiating With A Car Sales Person?

My short list of negotiating tactics:

1. Don’t negotiate. Tell the salesperson and sales manager that you’ll sign the paperwork the minute they hit your target figure. Politely decline any counter-offers, give them your phone number, and leave. If the price you’ve proposed is within the realm of possibility, they’ll call you at some point.

2. Follow-up on Saturday or Sunday nights an hour before closing time. Call and ask to speak with the salesperson or manager you’ve spoken to before. Remind them you’re a buyer when they meet your figure, but that they shouldn’t waste your time if they won’t. If your offer is possible, the opportunity to do one more deal before the end of the day might compel them to work with you … especially if the dealership is having a bad weekend.

3. Follow-up on the last day of the month. Again, salespeople and managers are often under pressure to find one more deal before the month ends. A deal that didn’t make sense on the 25th might make sense on the 31st if the month hasn’t met expectations.

4. Follow-up on days that have had terrible weather. A major snowstorm, a day of wind and rain, etc. can dramatically affect car sales. Call and remind the salesperson or manager that you’re happy to come down when they meet your offer. Again, the fact that they’re not selling cars might get them to bend in your favor.

5. Rinse, wash, and repeat. Do the same process concurrently with a couple of other dealers in your area. Make sure they have the car you want, and then give them their mission.

6. Know what a car is worth. If you’re buying a new car, Edmunds.com and TrueCar.com provide “true market” estimates that are reasonably accurate. If you’re buying a used car, KBB.com is a great resource, as it will tell you both retail value and wholesale (aka trade-in) value.

Essential Things You Should Keep in Your Car

Some of us keep absolutely nothing in our car trunks, while others have enough packed to live in their cars for weeks. Somewhere in between is this list of thirty things we think every car owner should always have on hand.

You can buy packaged emergency safety kits, like this one from AAA, which includes a booster cable, flashlight, first aid kit, and many other items, but the DIY approach is more satisfying and you probably already have many of these items lying around. It’s not just about emergencies or safety, either. Below I’ve separated the checklists by category.

There’s nothing like breaking down at the side of the road and realizing the spare tire in your trunk has a flat from the last time it happened.

(True story.) To keep you up and running, keep these in your trunk:

Spare tire (in good condition), along with a tire jack and tire iron, because without them or someone else to help you, the spare tire is useless. Here’s how to change a tire, in case you need a refresher. Also, if your wheels require a special security key, make sure that’s always in your car too.

Tire inflater and sealer, like the Fix-a-Flat, which can plug a leak (and help you avoid using the above tools) just enough to get you to the auto shop.

Jumper cables, because dead batteries happen to the best of us. We’ve got a crash course on how to jump-start a car, but you should familiarize yourself with your engine just in case things are a little different. Alternatively, you can pack an emergency battery booster so you don’t have to rely on a Good Samaritan coming along.

Your car’s manual, which should be in the glove compartment already.

Tire pressure gauge: As our sister site Jalopnik points out: “checking tire pressure on a regular basis can improve handling, increase fuel economy, promote tire longevity, and even save lives.”

Duct tape and WD-40. Seriously, check out these 10 heroic duct tape car repairs.

Car repair information. A business card for your auto repair shop, the number for AAA (if you’re a member), and car insurance claim forms should also be stored in your glove compartment.

You might already have an emergency go bag or kit set up. If you spend a lot of time in your car and it’s always nearby when you’re home, you could just keep that kit in your trunk—or create a second, perhaps lighter version.

How to negotiate when buying a car

Anyone can and should haggle when buying a vehicle. In fact, 64% of those who tried to negotiate when buying a car were successful, with just 16% of those failing to bag a discount, according to Money Advice Service research. So read our tips for negotiating car prices.

How to haggle for a new car

Make sure you’ve worked out what you can afford and have done plenty of research into the car you’re planning to buy – including the list price.

What to do in advance

Make sure you know the car’s list price. Look at the manufacturer’s website, or car websites such or What Car? Or check the new car listings at the back of weekly motoring magazines such as Auto Express.

Know the critical features suiting your needs. Don’t get talked into a lower specification because it is cheaper – instead, aim to get the model you really want at a discount.

Check online for rival dealers in your area to see if any of them are offering deals on the same car. This can be a good bargaining tool.

If you’re part-exchanging your current car, make sure you know what it’s worth. The more you can get for it, the less hard you’ll have to haggle on the rest of your deal. You can get a free valuation quickly and easily on sites such in new window or a more detailed valuation if you pay a fee.

Always test drive the car. Remember to try it up hills, in traffic and out on the open road. If possible, compare it with lower and higher specifications of the same car.

When talking to the salesperson

Be friendly and polite, but never let the salesperson know your top limit.

If you’re a cash buyer, don’t tell the salesperson this straight away. Dealers make bigger profits on finance deals, so let them bargain the car’s price on this basis. You can then decline the finance deal later in the process.

Start off by stating an amount lower than what you’re actually prepared to pay – you can then gradually increase it if necessary.

When you make an offer, don’t speak again until the salesperson replies.

Be as positive as possible about your aims. For example, don’t say “Can I have a discount?” Instead, ask “How much discount will you give me?”

Some negotiators start by saying they’re not prepared to pay the price advertised, but remember they ARE there to do a deal!

If you’re struggling to get a discount but you want the car, offer to close the deal there and then if you can both agree a price.

Don’t be afraid to walk out if the dealer isn’t prepared to negotiate or move much on the price.

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Get The Lowdown On Laminate Flooring

The Process Of Installing Laminate Flooring On Concrete

The installation process will vary according to the type of laminate planks and tiles you choose. They can be floated on the subfloor, for instance, if they have a click-lock system. Here are a few things you will need for the installation:

  • Floorboards: Buy 10% more square footage of floorboards than is necessary to ensure you have enough in stock in case of wastage.
  • Underlayment: The underlayment should be chosen keeping in mind the installation method as well as the room’s subfloor.
  • Tools and accessories: Saws, rubber mallets, tape measures and pencils are basic tools you will need on hand, even if you are hiring professionals for the installation.
  • Adhesives and nails: Whether you need adhesives specifically designed for laminate flooring installation or nails depends on the installation method you choose.

If you have tongue and groove planks, all you need is a rubber mallet and proper underlayment. The laminate boards have to be placed and click-locked with each other starting from any corner. You may need to cut and shape the planks near the edges of the room for better support.

  • Start installing laminate flooring by matching their tongue with the groove. Apply firm pressure when pushing the planks together.
  • During installation, make sure you leave an expansion gap of 1/4″ on all sides. Here’s a tutorial on how to install laminate flooring.
  • Read through the manufacturer’s recommendations before starting the installation process.
  • Make sure that your concrete subfloors are in perfect condition in order to get flawless laminate floors.
  • Remember that concrete slabs are not immune to moisture. Take all necessary precautions to ensure a smooth installation.

Before starting this step, prepare the subfloor and lay the underlayment carefully.

When will I need to use a moisture barrier when installing laminate flooring?

All laminate flooring requires an underlayment to allow the floor to float and give the locking system its strength. Sometimes the underlayment is already attached for you, but you may hear the term moisture or vapor barrier when installing laminate flooring. You may be wondering if you will need to use a moisture barrier. Depending on your subfloor and project, you will need a specific type of underlayment.

You will need a moisture barrier underlayment when installing:

  • On a cement subfloor
  • On any subfloor that has a chance of moisture coming up and soaking into the flooring

Moisture barrier underlayment acts as a blockade between the subfloor and laminate to protect your floor from any moisture damage. It really is as simple as it sounds!

How to Lay Down a Moisture Barrier

New hardwood or laminate flooring can give your home a whole new look and feel. When you put in new hardwood or laminate flooring, it is important to first install a moisture barrier, which will protect the new floor from water damage caused by condensation or leaks on the subfloor. This is especially important in basements. Failing to take this important step will leave your beautiful new floor vulnerable to mold and warping, shortening the life of your floor and forcing you to redo your work.

  • Roll the moisture barrier onto the floor lengthwise. Leave at least 2 to 3 inches on each side, which will overlap against the wall.
  • Overlap the next row by 3 to 8 inches, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Seal the seams with a moisture-resistant tape all the way down the length of the row.
  • Repeat these steps until the whole floor is covered.
  • Overlap the seams between pieces of moisture barrier along the length of a row using the same overlap, and seal them with the tape.
  • Trim any excess moisture barrier along the wall with a utility knife once the new flooring and and trim are installed.

How to Lay Out Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring has a lot going for it — its ease of installation, versatile appearance, durability and cost. Laminate is significantly easier to keep clean and dust-free than carpet and is extremely long-lasting when properly cared for. Formed from layers of wood and melamine plastic, its appearance rivals that of genuine hardwood flooring and its durability means in high traffic areas, you don’t have to worry about a genuine wood floor getting damaged — all for approximately two-thirds the cost of real wood.

  • Stack the opened planks of laminate in the room where they will be laid 48 hours prior to beginning the project. Set the thermostat to the normal temperature for the room to allow the flooring to adjust to the temperature and humidity.
  • Measure the width of the room and divide this by the width of the plank. The idea here is to ensure the last plank that is laid is a minimum of 2-inches wide. If the last plank will not be a minimum of 2-inches, the first plank that’s laid will need to be trimmed a little.
  • Cut the tongues off the first row of planks using a table saw. Take the first plank that will form the start of the second row, measure the length and mark the center point and cut in half. This is to offset the layout so the ends of neighboring planks aren’t level with each other.
  • Lay the underlay if required. Some laminate flooring has underlay attached to each individual plank, others require the underlay to be rolled out separately.
  • Take the first, full length plank with the tongue removed and position it on the floor with the groove facing in. Take the first piece of the second row that you cut in half and lay it next to the first plank. Snap the tongue of this piece into the groove of the first piece.
  • Snap the next two planks into the ends of the first two. Continue until you reach the end of the row, place a 2-inch spacer against the wall and measure and cut the last plank to fit in the gap. Slide the completed two rows into place against the wall using a hammer and block. Continue assembling rows across the room.

Little-Known Secrets of Laminate Floor Installation

The Connection Points are Delicate

Unless you are using high-end laminate, the tongue and groove system which holds the whole system together is made of fiberboard, which is essentially pressed cardboard.

You Can Only Reposition Them a Few Times

The small print on the package will say that each piece of laminate plank is good for six repositions. This can sound like a lot, but if things aren’t coming together, you can easily use up your six tries.

You Might be Able to Fix a Small Break

When you’ve overworked the interlock, often the tongue or groove of a plank will shear off, rendering the plank useless. These planks can sometimes be saved, however, by carefully reattaching the sheared-off lip with wood glue and letting it dry overnight.

You Can Supplement the Underlayment

If you run just a few inches short on the underlayment fabric, you can avoid going out to buy more for just that little space by substituting newspaper folded to the thickness of the underlayment. They shouldn’t be more than a few inches wide.

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Choosing Between Full And Self Loading Services Truck Rental

Which Means Of Transportation Should You Choose For Your Goods: By Truck Or By Train?

There has been a lot of debate about the necessity to limit the ecological impact of shipping by truck. The government has been thinking of alternative solutions such as shipping goods by train or making use of the electrification of transportation of goods. Here are some indications that will help you to choose the type of transport best suited to your needs.

The advantages of shipping by train compared to shipping by truck:

  • A fuel consumption economy (reduction in the dependency on oil products) ;
  • Pollution reduction (greenhouse gases) ;
  • Reduction in traffic buildups ;
  • Increased road security with less trucks on the roads ;
  • Secure goods;
  • Ideal for large volumes and long distances ;
  • Economic for long distances.

The disadvantages of shipping by train compared to shipping by truck:

  • Handling and bulk breaking ;
  • Dependency on road haulier for pre and post carriage with final delivery ;
  • Lack of flexibility ;
  • Problems or incidents on the road network (snow, etc.) ;
  • Not adapted to short distances ;
  • Uncertainty about departure and arrival dates ;
  • Safety issues for the population in the transportation of dangerous goods.

Shipping By Truck Gives More Flexibility

The advantages of shipping by truck compared to shipping by train:

  • Provides Door-to-Door Services

The first and foremost advantage is truck transportation provides door to door services to anyone who wishes to get the goods and services available at their doorstep. Trucking industries are much benefitted from these services. Local transportation companies help in providing day to day services.

  • Best Mode of Transportation

It is the best mode of transportation and is the cheapest of all. It is very good for short distances travels and hauls as it provides the best traveling experience. It is best suited for traveling within 700 km of distance.

  • Useful for Goods & Services

Another advantage is that now the online booking of the trucks could be done easily and which will be useful for goods and services to be transported. So, it becomes very easy for users to book whenever they want.

Flexibility: The Major Advantage Of Truck Transportation

As you can see, transportation via heavyweight vehicles such as trucks has a considerable advantage in comparison to other means of transportation: flexibility. Whether it is due to versatility, thanks in particular to the ways in which loading/unloading is carried out; or due to the ability to adapt to roadway conditions (such as weather conditions and traffic), truck transportation will definitely satisfy all your transportation needs. This has never been more true, as truck transportation increasingly uses technological benefits and enhancements, which make these companies even more efficient when transporting your cargo. This technology has given these companies undeniable logistical advances, notably in terms of communication and organization.

Cons of shipping by truck

  • Limitations on size and weight

Different states may have laws prohibiting truckload shipping goods whose weight or size exceed certain limits. This may mean that the cargo being moved may have to be limited to the set maximum weight or size.

  • Affected by weather and road conditions

Shipping goods by truck is subject to interference by weather conditions and even the state of the roads where the movement of goods could prove difficult during rain, snowy seasons, and so on, or if the area has no tarmacked (all-weather) roads.

  • Slower over long distances

Compared to rail shipping, truck shipping is quite slow over longer distances.

  • Expensive over long distances

Transporting goods by truck is not cost-effective over long distances. Rail transport is a better option in this case.

  • Unfriendly to the environment

Trucks emit a lot of smoke and other pollutants to the environment. They also deplete the scarce petroleum resources in a bigger way due to the size of the load carried, all of which harms the environment.

Benefits Of Shipping LTL Freight:

Regardless of the mode of transportation, the question remains the same: how can I get my product to market as fast as possible and at the lowest cost available without sacrificing service? Like ocean or air freight, trucking is another extension of this timeless quandary. Long gone are the days when everyone owned their own trucks and those trucks went to a handful of warehouses and distribution centers. Shipping has become more fragmented and spread out over further distances. A drop ship here, a fulfillment center there, and all points in between.

Shippers are presented with three different yet distinct options when shipping via ground. Their choices are parcel, LTL (less than truckload), and TL/FTL (full truckload). If you’re unfamiliar with shipping via LTL, unaware of LTL as a service, or would simply like to know more then read on.

Here are five key benefits of shipping LTL freight:

  • Time To Market

The single greatest advantage of LTL shipping is that you no longer have to wait for a full truckload to get your product to your buyer. Instead of waiting for enough orders in a region to maximize your load, or send a half empty truck, you can book your goods immediately and have them on their way to the consignee ASAP.

  • Less Warehouse Space

Every shipment you send out frees up space for new inventory within your warehouse. Why sit on freight and let purchase orders age when you can churn product and ship on-demand to your customers? Not only does this allow for a lean process flow within your warehouse, but it also allows the consignee to purchase in shorter cycles while reducing their own inventory.

  • Cost

With LTL you’re only paying for what you ship. Your freight charges are based on the class, space, and weight that you take up on the truck instead of the entire haul. These are substantial savings that actualize themselves not just over time, but every time you ship. There is a myriad of ways to further reduce costs via consolidations, common routing, back haul loads, etc. However, LTL freight isn’t without capacity issues or surcharges. Review out LTL Capacity Crisis Survival Guide for more on that!

  • Service Options

When negotiating LTL rates carriers can and often will provide services beyond dock to dock. Shippers can specify needs like lift gates, inside pick-up and delivery, cross docking, non-commercial shipments, event notifications, cargo tracking, etc.

  • Tracking & Security

Your buyer is going to want to know where and when they’ll receive their shipment. Many LTL carriers provided tracking details that include event notifications which will allow them to see in real time when their goods are picked-up, in transit, on time/delayed, and dropped off.

  • Tracking can be tailored to customer needs based on BL, PO, reference number, or even a date range. In addition, unlike parcel service, your goods will often be palletized which prevents damage, pilferage, and other loss.
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Benefits Of A Home Inspection

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. On average, a single-family home inspection usually takes 2-4 hours to complete, though this is heavily dependent on the of the size and condition of the home. After the inspection process, the inspector will send the client an inspection report (often within 24-48 hours) that covers their findings, complete with pictures, analysis and recommendations.

Why do homebuyers need a home inspection?

Buying a home could be the largest single investment the homebuyer will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, homebuyers should strive to learn as much as they can about the house before they buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. Through the home inspection process, homebuyers will have a better understanding about their prospective house, which will allow them to make decisions with confidence. If a homeowner is planning to sell their home, a home inspection can give them the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

What is covered in a home inspection report?

Exterior, Foundation & Structural Components (also could include basement, crawlspace)

This section will generally include:

  • Description of structure, foundation, floors, walls & ceilings
  • Condition of the visible elements such as foundation walls, framing, slabs, posts, beams, joists, etc.
  • Indications of moisture or water penetration
  • Land grading around the home, walkways, steps, driveways, decks, patios, retaining walls, etc.

Roof, Gutters & Downspouts

This section will generally include:

Description of roofing materials, drainage systems, & ventilation

  • Flashings, soffits & fascias
  • Skylights, Chimneys, & any roof penetrations
  • Inspectors aren’t required to climb on the roof to inspect, but many will if it is easily accessible and safe.

Attic, Insulation & Ventilation

This section will generally include:

  • Presence of attic insulation and approximate depth (R-value)
  • Any evidence of water intrusion
  • Kitchen, bathroom, & laundry exhaust systems
  • Ventilation of unfinished spaces

There must be sufficient headroom for inspectors to enter attic spaces or they may not be able to inspect.

Electrical

This section will generally include:

  • Location of main sub-panels, amperage rating, wiring method
  • Presence or absence of smoke alarms & carbon monoxide detectors
  • Inspection of technical aspects – service drop, entrance conductors, cables, disconnects, grounding, over-current protection devices, electric meter & base, etc.
  • Verifying operation of a representative number of switches, fixtures & receptacles
  • Inspection of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) receptacles using a GFCI tester

Inspectors are not required to test every outlet, move furniture or appliances, or test ancillary items like burglar alarms, timers, etc.

If you’re the home seller

It’s in your interests as a seller to provide quick and easy access to everything on that home inspection checklist. Here are some ways you can help:

  • Leave keys (for instance, for your electrical panel), and label them where the inspector can find them
  • Make sure all pilot lights are on for fireplaces and furnaces, even in summer — so the inspector can check heating and other appliances
  • Tidy your basement — There needs to be an unobstructed path down the steps and through to your furnace/HVAC unit/water heater and anything else that needs inspecting
  • Tidy your attic same as your basement
  • Clean up key areas in your yard so the inspector won’t need a machete to get to your crawl space, drainage access points or septic tank
  • If the home is vacant and the utilities have been shut off, have them reconnected

Being helpful won’t necessarily buy you a better report, but even professionals appreciate thoughtfulness.

How to get a better report

Inspectors are people, too. And, just like everyone else, they associate a clean, sweet-smelling home with owners who care about — and for — their property. It will do you no harm if the inspection starts off from that perspective.

Chances are, you recently prepared your home for showing and it’s already in close-to-perfect condition. But look around for new defects. If a tile’s slipped from the roof or a pane of glass has cracked, get them fixed in advance. Similarly, if your furnace or HVAC is temperamental or is overdue for maintenance, get it professionally serviced.

This is not the time to carry out expensive works. But you might as well go for any quick wins that are available. After all, your buyer’s likely to try to leverage any black marks in the inspection report for a lower price. Who knows? You might even save a few bucks.

What they don’t inspect

Again, while there is variation of what home inspectors look for, there are areas that are generally not covered by a home inspection. If you suspect any problems or concerns in the following areas, you may want to schedule an evaluation by a certified specialist. Here are a few of the things they do not generally inspect:

  • Pest control,
  • Swimming pools,
  • Asbestos,
  • Radon gas,
  • Venting equipment with household appliances,
  • Indoor air quality,
  • Lead paint and
  • Toxic mold.

Things a Home Inspection Doesn’t Cover

Insulation Voids

If there’s something (or nothing) in your walls, don’t expect a home inspector to start knocking holes in the drywall to take a look. Yeah, he’ll check the electrical outlets, but if the insulation on your northern-facing family room wall is non-existent or puddled around the baseboards, invest in some heavy duty socks (and a comfy sweater) come next winter, because your house will be cold.

Warped Floors

If the living room is carpeted with thick pile, it might not be immediately apparent that your son would be able to use the floor’s slope when he practices his skateboarding techniques. Inspectors don’t check to make sure that rooms are square and floors are level — because most of them just aren’t. How unsquare and unlevel may mean the difference between lounging on your sofa and hanging on for dear life. Houses go up quickly these days, so don’t expect the price of your home to be the determiner of quality workmanship. Grab a level (and a T square) and check for yourself.

Septic Tank Goo

Unless the backyard is a swamp of raw sewage, an inspector will check the pipes but generally disregard the septic tank system. This could mean an expensive and revolting education in the science of waste disposal if something goes wrong later. Septic tank problems are vile, hideous, nauseating and — did we say vile? Before you consider buying a home that isn’t connected to your city’s sewage disposal utility, have the septic tank evaluated by a contractor who specializes in septic system maintenance and repair.

Floor Creaks

Remember coming home late from a date when you were a teenager and trying to skip the creaking fourth (or fifth) staircase tread to avoid detection? Well, those days may be gone, but creaking homes are still common. Some homes creak so much they sound like Halloween haunted house tapes.

If you ever want to sneak up on your kids to make sure they’re really doing their homework, it’s nice to have a home that doesn’t announce your every move. Newer homes may creak less, but don’t count on it. Walk around any house you have in mind with a keen ear and the spirit of a dedicated disciplinarian. You might want to consider the flip side, too. Do you prefer silent stealth for yourself, or would you rather have a telltale creak announce the arrival of late night miscreants?

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The New Trend In Residential Metal Roof

METAL ROOFING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

There are lots of things to think about when considering roofing for your home. It includes cost, style, materials, and installation. Additionally, you want your home’s roof to be durable, good-looking, fire-resistant, and weathertight as much as possible.

With that said, take metal roofing into consideration instead of the conventional materials. A lower environmental impact, energy efficiency, and longevity are only some of the marvelous benefits of a metal roof.

Resistant To Insect, Rot, Fire Damage, and Snow Build-up

One of the significant reasons why metal roofing increased in popularity these days is that it’s practically fireproof. Metal roofing has instantly become the material of choice by homeowners, especially with the risk of wildfire on the rise.

Becoming More Common

Before, metal roofing was only found on architect-designed houses. Well, that is no longer true today. Metal roofing is progressively found in traditional homes due to the improved manufacturing processes and increasing availability.

Doesn’t Attract Lightning

Many people think that metal roofing will attract lightning. However, this belief isn’t borne out by statistics or facts. Metal Construction Association’s technical bulletin asserted that metal roofing doesn’t raise the danger of a lightning strike at all.

Going Green with Metal Roofing

Roofing ranks near the top of the list when it comes to commonplace home improvements that can benefit big from going green. After all, your roof’s exposure to heat, cold, and sunlight make it an excellent candidate for improving your home’s overall energy efficiency. And since your roof is also your home’s most important line of defense when it comes to protecting you and yours from the elements, it’s easy to see why homeowners across the country are drawn to the quality workmanship and high expectations that green remodeling is known for.

Green Metal Roofing

If you go into it with a green mindset, metal roofing is clearly one of the greenest roofing products on the market. Why? You can purchase metal roofs made from recycled materials; a metal roof is recyclable again when you tear it off; and on top of that, metal roofs are long lasting, durable, and energy-efficient, as well. They don’t come without a few potential pitfalls, however, which is why we’ve put together this guide on green metal roofing to help you make your new metal roof installation as green as possible.

Energy Efficiency and Green Metal Roofing

Choosing a greener metal roof almost always translates into cheaper energy bills down the road. Here’s what you can expect from your new metal roof in the energy savings department, and a few things you can do to increase your energy savings even more.

Metal Roofing is Cool Roofing—Metal roofing is known as a “cool” roofing material because it transmits far less heat from the sun down into your attic than other materials such as asphalt shingle roofing. Mostly that’s because metal roofs are thinner and can’t retain as much heat, though the color you choose to paint your roof can also make a difference.

Install Light Colored Roofing—With metal, a galvanized finish or white painted roof is ideal. Light colored roofing reflects, rather than absorbs, heat from the sun. The result is a cooler home and reduced cooling bills, especially if you have air conditioning ductwork in the attic.

Install Radiant Heat Barriers—Radiant heat barriers are a thin layer of metal insulation (usually tin foil with a paper backing or a metalized mylar sheeting), which can reduce radiant heat transfer into your attic by as much as 95 percent when installed to the underside of your roof.

Install Rainwater Catch Systems—Because metal roofs channel water so efficiently, and they don’t have toxic components like asphalt shingles, they are the perfect roofing material for a rainwater catch system. By installing cisterns or drums to catch valuable rainwater and runoff for landscaping use, you can save money on the monthly water bill.

Health Considerations and Green Metal Roofing

Johnston is quick to point out that contrary to popular belief, green remodeling isn’t all about improving energy efficiency. It’s just as much about creating more comfortable, safer, and healthier homes. Here are a few simple steps you can take to ensure that health is a priority during and after the time that your new roof is installed.

THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT METAL ROOFING

Metal roofing is rapidly growing in popularity among homeowners, most likely due its durability, low-maintenance, and low cost. It’s perfect for any home or commercial building, and our metal roofing contractors can make sure it’s properly designed and installed.

Still, asphalt shingles remain the most popular choice of roofing material across the nation. Asphalt shingles are a fine material for roofing, and ultimately the choice is up to you.

Metal roofing is completely recyclable.

New metal roofs will often be comprised of 30-60% recycled metals. They can be recycled infinitely, too, without ever losing any of their quality. And they’ll never end up in a landfill, so they do a lot to help the environment.

Most metal roofs require little or no maintenance.

Copper, stainless steel, and zinc roofs will only need repairs if there’s a problem with the design or installation. And they can last on your Wautoma home for well over fifty years.

Metal roofing should be considered a lifetime purchase.

While you may spend more upfront than you would for other materials, you’ll never have to repair or replace it again. And you can wash it easily with good-old-fashioned water

Metal Roofing

Metal roofers produce sheet metal parts for roofs and façades of buildings and assemble them. These include drainpipes, windowsills, as well as balcony, façade and roof claddings. Following the specifications of architects and building contractors, they produce construction units of sheet metal e.g. by bending, seaming, cutting and soldering and turn prefabricated sheet metal parts into the appropriate shape. They also produce sheet metal cladding for insulated pipes and containers and install ventilation and air-conditioning systems, solar panels, snow guard and bird control systems, as well as lightning protection systems.

Metal roofers mainly work in workshops and in outdoor construction sites (such as on roofs and façades) of buildings which are used for domestic, communal or commercial purposes. Metal roofers coordinate the tasks to be completed with architects and building contractors. They have the planned cladding of e.g. façades, balconies, roofs and chimneys explained to them on basis of plans and drawings. They make their own suggestions and draw attention to things such as the latest trends in roof design or the benefits and disadvantages of different materials

When the details of the structure have been determined, metal roofers produce the required construction units in their workshop. They cut and punch sheet metals, shape them by bending, creasing and compressing them, join them by compressing and welding them, thereby bringing the parts into the desired shape. Where they need several copies of certain workpieces, metal roofers produce stencils that enable them to produce identical forms. They examine the finished construction units and treat the surfaces, e.g. by applying anti-corrosion agents. They buy many prefabricated parts such as gutters and pipes from shops so these only need adapting, e.g. by sawing pipes and gutters to the desired length.

Many preparatory activities need to be carried out before metal roofers are able to assemble the parts they have prepared in the workshop on or in the building. After transporting the finished parts to the construction site, work and safety scaffolding needs to be set up, personal fall protection systems installed on buildings and wire ropes and winches set up. In addition, depending on the order, various activities on the brickwork are required such as creating wall slots and openings. Before metal roofers can fit façade or roof cladding, they affix thermal insulation materials. Where sheet metal parts are connected with the brickwork, metal roofers glue or weld joints and junctions, seal pipe connections, and close openings and recesses in the brickwork. They clad pipes using plastic sheathing, for example.

Metal roofers not only make new installations but also repair roof and façade cladding that has become damaged in the course of time and, in this process, fit additional thermal insulation where necessary. In addition, they install ventilation and air-conditioning systems, solar panels, heat exchangers and water pipe systems. The range of tasks also includes the installation of lightning protection systems and roof accessories such as snow guard systems. Metal roofers frequently work manually, using different machinery and hand tools which make their work easier, such as computer-controlled punching and bending machines, grinding machines plus saws and pipe expanders.

Metal Roofing Colors: Selecting the Best Color

Metal roofing offers a great variety of styles, materials, and colors. This guide focuses on color selection. — The item that every home owner can easily relate to.

Styles relate to the shape of the metal when installed on a roof, such as standing seam, or corrugated panels. Practically speaking, color considerations don’t matter to the style, though some styles will present slightly different colors and paint finishes.

Materials correlate with the type of metal, also called “substrate.” The popular choices for homes today are steel, aluminum, and copper. For the most part, we stick to steel and aluminum as the likely choice for most readers.

attention is on color. We’ll cover available options, general information on color, smart factors for selecting color and wrap up with some technical information dealing with the manufacturing of paint for metal roofs as it matters to the consumer (you).

Surprisingly, many people think of metal roofs as having limited color options. Perhaps they think the color matches the type of metal. Silver for steel, tin and aluminum; reddish-brown for copper; dark gray for lead. As if those are the extent of the color options.