Trading Services

I'll be the first to admit that I can't do a lot of the projects that I discuss in my monthly articles by myself. A lot of what I get done around the home is through knowing the right people and bribing friends and family with food and promises to help them when the situations arise.

Business Plans - What Do They Include?

by: Kevin Erickson

Ok... so you've finally reached that stage in the development of your home business to get started. You've done the research, you have a game plan and you're ready to go except for one small detail... you need money. Whether it comes from a loan or from investors it doesn't matter but you need a good dose of seed money to put all your hard work and planning into action. However, regardless of who hears your money pitch before they give you a dime they will want see your business plan.

Business Plan - What Is It?

Kontractor's Korner: Preventing Common Problems

We’ve all heard that “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure”. This applies to your home just as much as your health. As autumn falls upon us leaves are piling up and your furnace and chimney will be getting their first use in some time.

There are a few simple things you can do each season to save your self the headache of large problems down the road.

Water can be one of the most destructive things to your home, whether it is a leaky pipe, a hole in your roof or a clogged gutter, these small problems can be the cause of major remodeling if left unattended.

Getting Started with Your Project

So here we are, ready to do our remodel, addition, or building project. How do we start? You may have your plans, ideas, dreams, and expectations; but how do you bring it to life?

Well, we need a professional to help. The first step is hiring a licensed contractor. They are familiar with all the rules, laws, and codes. One of the best ways to select a contractor is to ask friends or relatives for recommendations.

Remodeling: Cost vs. Payoff

When the market turns as we are currently seeing, I believe it is a great time to cash in on some of the equity you’ve gained over the previous years by upgrading your home. Let’s face it. It makes your home much nicer to live in and enjoy, as well as it gives you a great sense of pride. I always look to my wife for the compliment of what a great job I did and how happy she is in our home after doing some upgrading.

Do-it-Yourself Home Upgrade Programs

Home Depot×s licensed professionals will show fun and rewarding do-it-yourself home upgrades at the following free adult programs at North Highlands-Antelope Library, 4235 Antelope Road, Antelope: April 2, Saturday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.: You Can Measure and Install Window Treatments.

April 16, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: You Can Install Flooring April 30, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: You Can Have Fun with Color and Faux May 7, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: You Can Update Your Cabinets and Countertops Free instruction handouts will be provided. Registration is not required.

Building Permits - Do I Really Need One?

This month I’d like to discuss the basics of Building Permits and Building Codes. The North Area Neighborhood Service Center is located at 6015 Watt Ave on the corner of Watt and Freedom Park Dr. (formerly E St.). This county building can provide you assistance with almost any concern you have regarding residential and light commercial building codes and permits. Having used this facility numerous times, I can confidently attest to the fact that they provide tremendous customer service and are extremely helpful.

Check the License Before You Get Your Checkbook

[incline:1]We are faced with a very serious problem: unlicensed contractors who pose as legal contractors, to rip off the unsuspecting property owner. I'll bet that most of you know someone, or have heard of somebody, who has been scammed by the unlicensed contractor. With today's rugged economy, make no mistake that the rip-offs are going to get worse. The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) is a state agency and is not able to guarantee protection against this illegal activity.

Time for a Checkup?

[inline:time for checkup.jpg]Although the cold, windy and rainy days we’ve had lately would seem to say otherwise, warmer weather is bound to be around the corner. Perhaps the recent cold snap has been a blessing in disguise for those who have not had their HVAC systems checked out in a while. The very best time to have your A/C checked is once the outdoor temperatures are above 65 degrees. The Freon level is a major component of how well your A/C will function and those levels cannot be accurately read when the temperature is below 65 degrees.