CAMERA SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS

 

The VMAX480 Proven Better, Faster, Smarter - More of what you have come to expect from the VMAX family of products. The VMAX480 is an upgrade of the advanced H.264 Linux Embedded digital video recorder VMAX. This DVR has all the features of VMAX plus more. With double the speed of VMAX, VMAX480 also features HDMI and VGA Support, Optional Looping Output, Mobile Device Quad View, and PTZ Control. The VMAX480 is available in 8 or 16 channel configurations with basic storage from 500 gigabytes to 4 terabytes.

With this technology you are able to view what is going on through your iPhone or Blackberry!

Features:

• Advanced H.264 Linux Embedded DVR
• Multiplex - Live, Playback, Recording, Backup, Network, Configuration
• 8 or 16 Channel
• 120fps at D1, Total 480fps at CIF
• HDMI and VGA Support
• One Touch Video Backup
• One Touch Reverse Playback
• Scheduled Network Backup
• Covert Channel
• Call Monitor
• Web-Based Client with Multi-User Access
• Automatic Private IP Addressing
• Simple & Free DDNS Support
• NTP (Network Time Protocol)
• Watermark Verification (Digital Signature Verification)
• Network Bandwidth Control
• DVR Health Check with Email Notification
• DVR Calculation and Auto Recording Configuration
• Help Menu on Major Function
• Configuration Import/Export
• Auto or Manual Firmware Upgrade Available
• Screen Saver to Protect Monitor Screen
• 4 Sensor Input, 1 Sensor Output
• Looping Output (Optional)
• Email or Text Event Notifications with Snapshots
• Central Management Software, Up to 128 CH
• Mobile Application for Blackberry, iPhone, Android
• Mobile Device Quad View and PTZ Control
• MAC Compatible Remote Software
• USB Mouse, IR Remote Control GUI
• Optional External USB DVD-RW or HDD Available for Backup
• 5 Year Limited Warranty

For more information visit Digital Watchdog

How to Effectively Sell Your Home in Sarasota Real Estate

When you plan to sell your home in Sarasota real estate, you may find it a bit stressful. You can find the process quite hard.

This is why real estate agent can be beneficial in preparing your home for sale and in advertising your property. But in getting a real estate agent, you have to take note that you have to give the agent 1-2% commission. So if you sell your property for three thousand pounds, you have to give the agent up to three hundred pounds. If you wish to work with a real estate agent, you have to consider the amount that you should pay for his/her service.

In seeking for real estate agent, you have to look for someone that can effectively assist and guide you with your quest; he/she must have the right expertise and experiences. In assuring to have the right agent, you can ask for recommendation from family and friends. Definitely, they are willingly to help you out. Contact few real estate agents; maybe you can contact at least 3 agents. You have to schedule each for interview. Make sure to do different schedules to prevent uncomfortable situations between different agents. Choose the one that you feel is the right one for you.

These days, many people are selling their houses through the internet. Actually, about 80% of the people in the UK are finding their new home through the internet. You can list your home on a website for around one hundred pounds. So there are some people who rather list their homes on a website than using a real estate agent. It depends up to you which one you prefer to make use. These are two methods that can assist you in selling your home.

But before you market your home for sale, you have to make sure that your home is prepared enough to make a quick sale. You can improve your home without spending too much. You have to clean you home. You can make it clean and looks new if you repaint it. Repainting is a good way to make a home looks appealing and it is not expensive. Declutter and remove unnecessary materials or equipments that are not usable anymore. Clean the bathrooms and kitchens, free these rooms from any unnecessary odors. Clean the carpets and used towels to free your home from unpleasing odors.

Clean the yard. Yes, you have to make your yard appealing as well. Buyers will take time looking at the yard. So clean up and declutter.

Your goal is to make your home in Sarasota real estate, a comfortable one. You have to let your buyers envision themselves living in your home. So you have to do things to make it an appealing and attractive home. This can help you make a quick sale.

Eliza Maledevic Ayson

http://www.srqmls.com

Safeside Security Burglar Alarms

In the past, security systems were regarded as luxuries only the rich would need or could afford. But today, there is a security system for any household, business and budget. Security systems are as much of a necessity of modern life as computers, dishwashers and microwaves. With everyone's busy lifestyles, there is often just no one to keep a watchful eye out and local police just can't be everywhere all at once.

The good news is today's Security Systems are simply smarter, more user-friendly, and more affordable than ever before. Safe Side Security offers a hybrid of hardwired and wireless system components to suit your needs today and tomorrow. Protecting your property from burglary, our systems can do it all with ease 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Our advanced security systems are engineered to be so smart they're actually easier to use; with your choice of keypads, remote key fobs, and detectors for a complete user friendly system.

What Does U.L. Monitoring Mean to You?

U.L. certification assures customers, their insurance firms and their local emergency service agencies, that our central station will provide the highest quality and most reliable burglar and fire alarm service that are available to both residential and commercial customers.

We feel that the Company providing the monitoring of your alarm system is an extension of Safe Side Security Inc. and should share the same business philosophy of prompt, courteous customer service. Total Monitoring Services, Inc. has been exceeding customer expectations, one client at a time, since 1971. Their emphasis is on Service with Integrity and Commitment. As a UL® listed central station, they adhere to high standards and have a team of dedicated professionals that are ready to help.

To find out more about Total Monitoring Services, Inc., visit their website:   http://www.tmscentral.com

The Benefits Of Buying Hammock Chairs

Hammocks are the unofficial symbols of summer fun and relaxation. But they didn’t use to have such a reputation. Back in the 1960s, they were plainly utilized for sleeping purposes. Now, apart from being a tool for leisure, they are also considered a great design element for a summer themed homes as well as therapeutically important equipment. And because of their popularity, they have been restructured into smaller alternatives called hammock chairs. These are typically hand woven and made with the same materials as that of regular hammocks. The only difference is the structure, since they are only meant to be sat on. With this alteration comes a variety of advantages.

First on the list is convenience. With a hammock chair, users do not have to struggle when it comes to reading a book or engaging in a conversation whilst stretched out. Since this device is made to keep you in an upright position without withholding you the comfort of a typical hammock, you do not have to strain your back when doing other activities aside from resting. You can eat, paint, and watch your children play by the pool or just enjoy the scenery of your backyard under the shade of a tree.

Another advantage would be ease of use. Since a hammock chair needs not to be hung from two branches or poles, you can have it placed in any part of your house and enjoy its comfort. Hammock chairs only require one hanging point or a stand and to set it up, you will only need to tie or insert the hoop to the clasp. Stands are adjustable. So there’s no need to worry about storage.

On that note, it is also noteworthy to discuss portability as the third advantage of owning a hammock chair. Since both stand and hammock are compact in size, you can carry it around with you on trips and be able to unwind anywhere you are. You could also transfer it from one side of the courtyard to another, or from outdoors to indoors with no time to waste.

Finally, we point out the medical benefits of owning hammock chairs. It is obvious that they are quite instrumental to giving people a means to reduce their stresses. There is nothing more calming to the senses than settling down on a hammock chair and rocking yourself back and forth. They are great for pregnant women who cannot afford to lie down on a hammock or those people who are on the go. On top of that, some yoga practitioners have found it quite effective to meditate while sitting on a hammock chair since it gives the muscles the chance to relax. This relieves pressure from key energy areas and enables the blood to circulate better. And as a result, you are able to renew your stamina and improve cognitive faculties.

If you are thinking about buying a hammock chair, you should first research on your options since they normally come in a variety of sizes and materials. There are plenty of review sites available to give you some suggestions on the form and brand you should get. And prices usually range between $30 and $200.

FIRE ALARMS & INSPECTIONS

Safe Side Security Inc. provides commercial fire alarms for any application; from voice evacuation to simpler water flow systems. Often times the fire alarm installation is the last thought during construction but is a requirement before the building can be signed off for occupancy. Local Fire Marshals, National Fire Protection Association and current Life Safety Code requirements can be confusing and difficult to interpret. Let our California Fire & Life Safety qualified technicians assist you in designing and installing your fire alarm system. We are also a listed U.L. (Underwriters Laboratories) installing Fire Alarm company.

Our company also provides Fire Alarm Inspection service for local & monitored fire alarm systems. We adhere to the inspection requirements as outlined in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines and provide comprehensive testing and maintenance of fire detection devices.

If you already have a fire alarm system, we can provide inspections and 24 hour U.L. monitoring by Total Monitoring Services, Inc. Call our office to speak with one of our qualified Fire specialists. 800-794-7575

 

Robert Brundage 

Fire Inspector

UL Certified Installer of Fire Alarm Systems 

TELGUARD INTERACTIVE SYSTEM

 

As more customers get rid of their landlines they are turning to mobile apps to make their lives easier. With Telguard Interactive you can have peace of mind in the palm of your hand for a franction of the price of other solutions.

Available for the iPhone, Android and BlackBerry; Telguard Interactive is ready for activation with Telguard's cellular alarm communicators, making it compatible with virtually all residential alarm panels.

Click here for the 2 .pdf files to get more details about the Telguard Interactive and the TG-1 Express Cellular Alarm Communicator systems.

 Call Safe Side Security for details and installation information. 800-794-7575

Good Planning Makes For a Great Home Improvement Project

If you've been dreaming of a home improvement or remodeling project, it's time to make it a reality. As with any project, good planning is the key to saving you stress and money and achieving the rewards that can come from a newly designed space.

Begin fulfilling your dream by clarifying why you want to do this. The majority of remodeling projects begin as a result of the need to make changes because the house no longer meets the needs and desires of the family. For example, having a baby or growing children can result in a need to expand your space. Or perhaps you have lived in your home for more than 10 years and you are getting an itch to update and modernize. Whatever the reason, it is best to make clear what you hope to accomplish from this home improvement project.

Brainstorm about everything you would like to have included in your remodel and then categorize each item as a "necessity or must have", "amenity or nice to have" or "definitely not". In order to organize your thoughts and ideas, create a notebook. This will allow you to keep pictures, color samples, fabric swatches, material specifications, reference phone numbers, budget information and project records in one concise area.

Now that you have answered the why and the what, it is time to take a look at the numbers. Spending time on the budget early on in the project plan, as well as reviewing it at every step of the process, is essential to its success and your sanity. Don't forget to take into consideration the payback you hope to achieve from this home improvement. Typically a kitchen or bathroom improvement offers the highest payback when it comes to resale. Talk to a trusted real estate agent if this is a major consideration.

Being realistic with what you can afford and when you can afford it will allow you to put together a realistic timetable for the project as a whole. The schedule should be created with the help of your "construction team", which may include an architect, interior designer, loan officer, and general contractor, to name a few. Areas that typically can cause a ripple in your timetable are the design phase, getting permits and the actual time for construction. Make sure that you have "padded" your schedule to account for these factors.

Identifying reliable competent contractors to work on your project can be as stressful as the project itself. This can also take the most time, so be sure to account for it on your project schedule. The simple answer to getting the best person for your project - research! Begin your search by asking friends and neighbors who have completed their own home improvements who they used. The county building department and Yellow Pages are also places to look. Then do your own homework by verifying their license and insurance, check references and reputation, and view previous and current jobs. Plan interviews that will allow you to assess their personality, approach to problem solving and their understanding of your dream. They may be the best at what they do, but if they don't "see" your vision of the completed project, then helping you make it reality is going to be difficult. Plan to evaluate up to three bids before you make your final selection.

Through careful planning, the ground work should be completed which leads you to the exciting and nail biting phase of the project - construction. Pay attention to the work as it progresses without micromanaging of your construction team. Walking this fine line can make the difference between a good remodeling experience and a nightmare. Having pre-arranged work review meetings in your project plan can help. Use these to go over any issues that have come up, re-evaluate expectations, monitor progress and maintain positive communication with your contractor.

Post construction, before the celebration party, make sure that the punch list (final "to do" list) has been completed to your satisfaction and that your home owners insurance is updated to reflect your remodel.

It can't be said enough - good planning will make for a great home improvement project.

The Reality Of Residential and Commercial Security Systems

The security of your home and business is not something people take lightly and rightfully so. It is important to look into the options available to you when it comes to alarm systems and monitoring. Making this a priority in your life will bring you peace of mind. Many facts surround the security industry regarding home alarms and commercial security systems. In order to ensure you are getting all the advantages that come with security alarms it is important to be informed. Below you will find the realities that come with the use of residential and commercial security systems.

There is nothing that can be offered by a security company that is 100%

Based on statistics, a criminal is less likely to choose the home or business that offers a challenge when entering. Security systems offer this challenge, extra lighting offers a challenge and extra security locks too. Anything you can do to promote a secure environment will deter a thief. A security system starts with an alarm and monitoring system however does not end there. Adding challenges such as motion lighting, dead bolts and noise make burglars turn the other way to seek out an easier target. Dead bolts take time to break. Time is never on a thief's side. Lighting and noise bring attention to the home which is exactly what they are looking to avoid. Your job is to make the environment uncomfortable for them and secure for you.

I am only leasing this space

Renting a space still entitles you protection as a home or business owner. A wireless alarm system provides you with a quality security system that is reliable and can be moved. It is true that people feel more secure, sleep better and save on their insurance policies with a security system in place. It really does not matter that you are only leasing the important piece of the puzzle is that you feel secure that you and your possessions are safe.

Pets can trigger a false alarm

When a pet trips the alarm it is usually with the use of a motion detector security device. With today's technology interior alarms can be equipped with a feature that makes then immune to your pet. This enables the home to stay protected and allows your pet to move about the house freely without causing an alarm to go off. Perimeters are the region most likely to have your pet set off an alarm.

You can actually save money on home and business insurance installing a security system

It's true when you install a security system you can actually save money. Insurance companies have different policies and rates in place. Talk with your current insurance provider to explore discount options that are available with the installation of your home security system. When considering available discounts, insurance companies look at statistics that prove homes and business equipped with alarm and monitoring systems are less likely to be victimized then those without. Talk with your provider to ensure you aren't missing out on valuable discounts that you could qualify for.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7100092

4 Little Known Secrets to Successfully Remodel Your Home

When it comes to choosing a remodeling contractor, it's sometimes hard to figure out the "good guys" from the "bad guys." In order for your next remodeling project to meet your expectations, use this guide as an informational tool helping you to avoid the scams and unscrupulous tactics that are rife within the home improvement industry.

SECRET #1 - Avoid The Two Biggest Misconceptions About Remodeling

Misconception #1: Taking a contractor's word simply at face value.

Request to see all claims in writing. Believing simply what a contractor tells you can be a costly mistake. If a contractor claims to be a member of a particular organization, there is certainly nothing wrong with asking to see proof. Hearsay is not admissible in a court of law, and so should be the case when it comes to dealing with your biggest investment - your home.

Misconception #2: Going with the lowest price saves you money.

This statement is not necessarily true. Everyone wants three things when making a purchase: 1) Low Price, 2) Best Quality, and 3) Best Service. It's nearly impossible to get all three. As the old adage goes, "You can't get something for nothing." Before accepting a low price, consider the level of service involved, the type of company you are choosing, the design of your project, and the specifications of your project. Price should always be weighed, but value is always the more important consideration.

SECRET #2 - Elude High Pressure Sales

Beware of high pressure tactics; they are intended to get you to sign a contract immediately. A good deal of skepticism is recommended for any offer that states, "You must sign now!" If you are offered a limited time special, ask for documentation or samples of flyers stating to that effect. Legitimate companies make legitimized "limited time only" offers.

SECRET #3 - Beware Of Door-To-Door Handymen

These people may not be contractors at all. Never allow them into your home until you have checked them out thoroughly. Even if they turn out to be real contractors, door-to-door contractors are notorious for providing incomplete or sub-par work. There is no real savings if you spend your time tracking down a contractor to finish the job, or, worse yet, you must hire another contractor to correct the other's inferior work.

SECRET #4 - Ask These Questions Before Hiring Any Contractor

"Are you licensed?" Make sure your contractor is deemed by your state to have the proficiency and knowledge to work on your home.

"Do you carry general liability insurance?" This type of insurance protects your property in case of damage caused by the contracting company.

"Do you carry workman's compensation insurance?" This insurance protects you from liability if a worker is injured while on your property. Some contractors claim that your homeowners insurance will sufficiently cover them. This statement is simply not true. In most cases, your homeowners insurance excludes injuries sustained by hired workers.

"Are you a member of the Better Business Bureau or any other building association?" Conscientious contractors usually belong to multiple associations. These associations investigate contractors' backgrounds and references as well. Therefore, undesirable contractors are usually weeded out of these organizations.

"Will you pull the required permits?" A reputable contractor will pull a permit on every job where one is required. Some contractors may ask you to pull your own permit. This could be a warning sign that the contractor is not licensed to do the specified work. In addition, some insurance companies will not cover work that is done without a proper permit.

"Do you guarantee your work?" This one is simple. If a contractor can't guarantee it, then don't buy it.

"How do you handle your clean-up?" A clean work site is fundamental to a smooth remodeling project. Your contractor should dispose of any debris at the end of each day. Your home should be left "broom swept."

Feel smarter? Hopefully so.

Now, you should be properly prepared to solicit estimates for your upcoming project. Best of luck with your remodeling plans!

Celebrate Safe Side Security's 30 Year Anniversary at Our Open House This Thursday!

 

You are invited 

to celebrate Safe Side Security's 30 year anniversary at our

Open House

 

Thursday June 13th, 2013 from 10:00am to 4:00pm

1240 Commerce Avenue Suite C Woodland, Ca 95776

 

Appetizers will be served throughout the day at this come and go event.

Contracting a Pressure Washer to Clean Your Home's Exterior

Pressure washing, concrete cleaning is a quick and thorough way to clean the exterior of your house. Owing to the scale of the operation, you may want to hire a contractor to do the job for you. Then you'll have to make sure the service provider you choose is fully qualified for the task. Otherwise, you run the risk of incurring costly damage to your property.

Selecting a Quality Pressure Washing Service

Outlined below are pointers to guide you in your search for a quality pressure washing contractor. Additional advice is provided as well on how to deal with the contractor of your choice when the cleaning work is in progress, and when it is completed.

1. Equip yourself with a clear understanding of the risks involved in pressure washing and how to minimize these risks. Taking the time to educate yourself thus will enable you to distinguish between the mediocre outworker from the quality contractor.

2. Arrange to meet the contractor in such a way that they evaluate the site to be worked on together with you. Establishing clear communications at this point will help limit the possibility of errors in the estimating process.

3. Consult with several contractors, asking each specific questions about the service to be provided, including procedures, expected results, and the risk of damage. Expect the more professional ones to entertain your inquiries, listen to your concerns, and have questions of their own. They will usually demonstrate some initiative in sizing up the site for you, and make a reasonable disclosure of what they can offer and what they cannot, giving you an almost complete picture of what the job will look like.

4. Request for an outline of the cleaning procedure. This summary of work steps that may come with the estimate or as a separate sheet should prove to be a helpful tool for comparing the different pressure washing services you consult with.

5. Inquire about the service's equipment. Do they own the machines or just lease them from another company? Ownership is an indicator of a long-term commitment to the pressure washing industry, while renting is evidence that they are only an occasional or temporary provider.

Most pressure washers that are for real will be outfitted with apparatus that have at least the following specifications:

-11 to 15 horsepower (HP)
-3000-4000 pounds per square inch (PSI) of pressure, and
-three to six gallons per minute (GPM) of water flow.

A rating of 2000 PSI and two GPM is residential-, rather than industrial-grade equipment.

6. Ask providers to give you a demonstration. Not many providers will accede to this request, as it often requires much time and effort to undertake. It does not mean you should never ask, though. Often, the provider will respond by asking the client to be there during setup instead. During this time, do not think twice to inform the contractor of any qualms you may have about the work to be performed.

7. See that the estimates are formalized in writing. This record should protect both you and the service provider you are hiring. A written estimate provides clarity to the desired service, details expected results, and itemizes cost of labor and materials.

8. When getting referrals, make sure that they lead you to the type of work you want done. If it's your deck you want tidied up, then you shouldn't be receiving a recommendation for a vinyl siding cleaning. Put the referrals you obtain to good use. Get feedback about the prospective contractor's professionalism and workmanship. Ask the person providing you with the referral whether the cleaning process and its outcome were to his satisfaction.

9. Be as fully acquainted as you can be with the contractor's satisfaction and billing policies. Make sure the deposit and payment timetable is clear to you. Don't hesitate to ask what a contractor's policy is in the event you are not satisfied with the service rendered.

10. Check if the provider has liability insurance. Honest-to-goodness pressure washing contractors normally protect both themselves and their customers from the on-site dangers of accident, injury or damage to property.

11. Perform a cost analysis. Your assessment will naturally be a factor in arriving at a decision on which professional cleaner's services to contract. You should more or less get what you pay for, so a deck rub up that costs only $49 or a $99 charge for a thoroughgoing house washing should put questions in your mind about job quality.

After You've Chosen the Cleaner

Once you have contracted the cleaner of your choice, exert every effort to be present when the work is underway and when it is completed.

Do yourself the favor of witnessing first hand the cleaning process and its results, which are usually remarkable. Consult the contractor about any concerns you may still have. Contractors are normally not very inclined to return at some future date just to solve what they believe may be just a minor problem, so let them address whatever you feel needs attention right away. Finally, make a thorough round of the site to inspect it and evaluate the work just completed. For Atlanta pressure washing services click our link.

To sum up your quest for a fully qualified pressure washing outfit to service your home's exterior: Research to build a knowledge base regarding this form of cleaning. Size up each contractor you inquire about, weeding out possible low quality providers, and making the willingness to listen to your reasonable concerns and provide whatever assistance is possible, a measure of true professionalism. Analyze costs. And use common sense all along the way.

Selling Your Home? Home Improvement Projects to Avoid

Many homeowners each year make the mistake of thinking that any home improvement project is a good one in terms of adding value to their home. Unfortunately, this is simply not true. There are some home improvement projects you can take on which will not improve the value of your home in terms of the money you spend on the project and there are even other home improvement projects which can detract from the value of your home. If you think you may sell your home at some point in the future, it is imperative to make sure you know which home improvement projects to tackle and which ones to avoid.

The first thing to keep in mind when considering any home improvement project is that you do not want to outdo the neighbors. While the old adage of keeping up with the Joneses is certainly true to a degree, you do not want to exceed them. A home that is largely out of the price range of its neighbors is usually going to be more difficult to sell than a home that is in keeping with the rest of the neighborhood.

Two of the biggest mistakes you can make on home improvement projects is spending money on highly individualized projects and technological advancements. Avoid spending money on items such as saunas and steam baths. Such improvements might add to the value of your property but if the buyers viewing your home are not interested in these items you may find it more difficult to sell the property.

The same is also true for swimming pools. Many homeowners make the grave mistake of believing that a pool with add to the value and desirability of their home. This is definitely not true. Many buyers, especially those with small children, avoid homes with pools. Even if a buyer does not have small children they may be concerned about the maintenance issues that go along with having a swimming pool. The simple fact is that homes with pools generally tend to take longer to sell than homes that do not have a pool. If you are considering adding a pool to your home make sure you are doing it for the right reasons, because you will enjoy it, and not because you want to improve the value of your home. Otherwise, the addition of a pool should be avoided.

In addition, it is imperative to avoid spending a lot of money on technological advancements which will usually quickly become outdated. This is a waste of money that will usually not net you a large return.

Ideally, it is usually the simplest things which will bring you the highest rate of return in terms of home improvement projects. Simple projects such as ensuring your home has a fresh coat of paint or improving your landscaping can add a lot of value to your home and make it more desirable. Never underestimate the power of curb appeal; particularly in homes that are considered to be luxury properties.

This has become increasingly popular today when more buyers are beginning their property search on the Internet. Statistics indicate that some 80% of buyers actually begin looking for properties online. A photograph is truly worth more than a thousand words in these circumstances. If your home lacks curb appeal this could mean that it will the house that languishes on the market for months while other homes with more curb appeal sell much faster.

There are certainly some areas in which it makes more financial sense to focus your money if you are considering selling your home. Staging is one of them. Studies indicate that homes which have been professionally staged are selling faster and for more money than homes that have not been professionally staged. Luxury homes may even be able to sell for up to 20% more with staging than homes that are not staged.

You should also keep in mind the features that are most popular in homes right now. Kitchens and master bedrooms continue to rank high in importance with most buyers. Buyers are looking for master bedrooms which can serve as sanctuaries and have features such as vaulted ceilings and fireplaces.

The main key is to make sure that regardless of what types of home improvement projects you take on, you do not go too far. There is definitely something to the old cliché 'too much of a good thing' and that is certainly true in the case of home improvement projects.

Home Security - Burglary Prevention Tips

There is a reason why home security is such a thriving business in the United States. First of all, 78 million Americans or more own their own homes. Those homes are full of goodies that the bad guys want. Everything from collectibles to jewelry to cash and handguns-practically anything that they can easily sell on the secondary market in a pawn shop for quick cash.

The home security industry, in general, is one of the fastest growing segments of our economy. The 78 million homeowners are looking for ways to protect not only their home but the contents. The average home burglar steals approximately $2,000 worth of goods, and one in six homes annually is a target for home burglary.

If you are so naïve as to think that your home is immune-you need a wake-up call. We will readily admit that burglars are not the sharpest knives in the drawer but even average burglars do their homework and look for weaknesses in a home's security. That is one of the reasons why most new homes these days are equipped with security systems, including outdoor cameras.

But here we will be discussing some ways to prevent burglars from targeting your home-burglary prevention tips.

1. When the bad guys go looking for potential targets, the first thing they look for are bad habits of homeowners-they have plenty to choose from. For example, are windows consistently left open? Or how about that garage door, is it always closed? All doors and windows should be locked even when you're at home-including your garage door.

2. Spend some extra money and get laminated glass for all windows, including sliding glass doors. The more obstacles you can place in the way of a burglar, the better off you will be. Laminated glass is not easily broken.

3. Rods made of steel or screw on stops are great ways to allow ventilation through windows and still prevent entry by the bad guys.

4. Drapes or blinds are an effective way to conceal what is inside the house, thus lessening the temptation to break in.

5. Make sure all your doors are solid-core with long dead bolts. If you have a wooden door frame. make sure the strike area for the lock is made of steel to help prevent forced entry.

6. Make sure all your doors have a wide-angle peephole.

7. Sliding glass doors are great for viewing the outside, but they make tempting targets for burglars. It is a proven statistic that homes with sliding glass doors are more likely to be broken into, so protect them with a metal rod stopper.

8. Door and window alarms are very inexpensive but yet effective ways to deter most burglars. Their loud sirens can scare away most of them and possibly alert your neighbors to trouble at your house. You should have one for every door and window.

Follow those 8 tips and your home will be more secure.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7760730

4 Tips To Keeping Your Home Safe While On Vacation

Your home is a delicate place, and even the potential for a break in can turn some people away from an extended vacation. With theft related crime on the rise, it is no wonder that so many people are concerned with the safety and security of their home during a vacation. But there are many ways to protect against, and even prevent these dangerous happenings while you are away relaxing. Consider the following four as some of the best methods to preserving that peace of mind.

Hire A Security Company For Daily Checks

This is one of the most surefire ways to know your home is protected against all sorts of things. These daily checks severely discourage potential thefts, because a person who is casing your home for a break in is not likely going to want to deal with added security personnel. For this reason, you can hire them to check your home at the same time every day, or conduct the search at random times.

Closed Circuit Cameras

Keeping a watchful eye on your property is even more of a boon with today's modern technology. You can monitor your home even while you are away with your pad or smartphone, and ensure with your own eyes that everything is as it should be, even if you are far away on vacation. Even if you do not have this technology, a camera in an oblivious location can be a major criminal deterrent.

Alarm Systems In Your Home

Having a good alarm system can protect your home while you're on vacation better than most any other method. The alarms can alert you to a problem even if you are away from home, and give you the option to summon fire rescue or police services if the need arises. Again, even having a minor alarm system can be a criminal deterrent by itself.

Safes

Sometimes, despite all of your planning to prevent a break in or fire, something bad still happens. A safe can protect your most precious belongings and personal documents if the worst should happen, and give you at least some building blocks with which to start again. There are many types of safes designed specifically for the things you want to protect and what you wish to protect against. Even if you cannot afford a high-grade locking safe, a fire protective safe is a great idea for any vacationer.

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Project Accounting Software Best Practices When Developing Residential Estates

If you're involved with construction for a Residential Estate then these “best practices” for using your Project Accounting Software will help your client with their dealings with their financiers as well as simplifying your project manager's work.

However before you look at your software, it's best to have a clear idea of the processes involved when undertaking a broad-acre conversion to a residential housing estate.

The Big Picture

To start with you know that the financier backing your developer client is not going to take on the all of the Risk involved with constructing the total number of homes that can fit on the broad-acreage. They will aim to minimise their risk by staging the development.

So the the broad-acreage will be conceptually divided into several Development Stages. The first stage release will commence with the construction of a display village consisting of one of each house type. This enables their sales team to walk prospective clients through a completed home and to estimate the cost of changes to the basic design on a client by client basis.

After sufficient sales are made in Stage 1 the developer will release another Stage downstream and in the process build a new display village and sell off the first display homes you constructed.

This provides a positive cash flow for the developer as they progress through building the remaining stages and in doing so lessens the risk for the financier.

Now we understand the big picture, we have to determine how best to manage this Contract using our project accounting software.

One Project or Many Projects?

You may think it a good idea to set up each home as a project but there are disadvantages to this simplistic approach – particularly in terms of reporting.

It would be best if the whole Estate was defined as a single Project and then as you undertake construction you define each house, being the Scope of Works, as a Stage within that project in your project accounting software. The use here of the term “Stage” should not be confused with the “Staged releases” of land within the estate.

Better Client Reporting

One benefit of this approach is that it makes it easier to produce the reporting that your client the developer needs to provide to their Financiers to convince them that their risks are being managed properly. This is because you can produce “big picture” plus” drilled down” reporting as required.

Management Focus

The Stages approach also helps your project managers focus on the construction as they can see all the information about an individual house and follow it right through the system. In effect you have a “sub-cost report” for just a single house.

Managing Subcontractors

When a new house is required to be constructed, then you would add a new Stage and then allocate your tradespeople to work on it. The scheduling process will easily identify the extra details.

If we examine the Subcontractor Payment Claims process then each tradesman has an original contract for work on other stages (homes) so if they win another stage (home) then it will just be another amendment to their contract. You can then pay the subcontractor by stage and in the process make tracking and controlling the processes easier.

Complementary Projects

Depending upon how you contract with the developer you may in fact be establishing two projects - not one - for the entire estate. This would be the case if you decided to use a Complementary Project approach.

This approach enables you to manage the construction project on an “open book” basis, with the developer taking the risk and some portion of the work charged at agreed rates. You would take a small risk for the preliminary items but have an agreed rate of recovery for selected services such as project management on an hourly basis.

To do this in your construction accounting software you would establish one project as open book with the client, where the budgets equal the agreed target prices of the client. In this project, the income is equal to the expenses so there is no profit. But you link this project with a second project which invoices the first project for the value of contracted services at the agreed rates.

Payment Options

The next point to consider is how to pay subcontractors and suppliers in the first project so that it doesn't effect your cash-flow.

Ideally the client should setup a trust account and you pay contractors out of this account based upon a client approved payment list. However some developers may insist upon greater control of the “purse strings”. In this case you could still control all the subcontractor claims paperwork within your construction accounting software and at the end of each Pay-run send the direct deposits data file to your client so the developer can pay off this file using their own bank.

So the developer controls the “purse strings” but your project managers manage the job without you assuming the financial risk.

The practices should enable you to make better use of your project accounting software when your constructing for a Residential Estate Developer.

Celebrate Safe Side Security's 30 Year Anniversary at Our Open House!

 

You are invited 

to celebrate Safe Side Security's 30 year anniversary at our

Open House

 

Thursday June 13th, 2013 from 10:00am to 4:00pm

1240 Commerce Avenue Suite C Woodland, Ca 95776

 

Appetizers will be served throughout the day at this come and go event.

Tips For Creating The Room Of Your Dreams

With home accessories and decor, the main goal of the vast majority of people is to create the room of their dreams. This typically means you choose home accessories that you adore, but then become stumped when everything you love doesn’t quite fit into the overall home decor scheme. Here are a few tips and tricks for creating the room of your dreams, no matter what your budget may be.

Clear It Out

It can be difficult to imagine the room of your dreams if the room you’ll be decorating is already full of clutter. That being said, take time to empty the room out. If you’re reusing any of the furnitures, leave those furnitures behind but clear everything else out of the space.

By clearing the space out, you’ll be able to better envision your new room.

Clean It Up

With everyone out of the room, give it a good deep clean. Vacuum up the corners, clean up all of the dust and cobwebs. Even the most beautiful of home decor is worthless if it’s full of dust, dirt and decorated with cobwebs.

Start with Furnitures

Before you begin picking out the little details, you’ll need to start with the big ones. When creating the room of your dreams, you should work starting from the big picture down to the little details of the space. If you’re reusing your existing furnitures due to a limited budget, consider revamping the pieces. Sanding them down and refinishing them, or throwing a fresh coat of high gloss paint on, can help change their overall look for a fraction of the cost. Swap out handles and knobs for shiny new fixtures and you’ll have furnitures that look and feel brand new, without the cost.

Decorate the Walls

When you’re thinking of the room of your dreams, do you see any wall art in the space? Typically when we’re thinking of what we desire, it’s beautiful furnitures or perfect accessories in a beautifully lit space with the perfect color palette. Very rarely do we remember to include wall art.

The room of your dreams should incorporate wall art that you love. You need to surround yourself with photographs or paintings that not only inspire you, but make you feel at home. Choose wall art that not only compliments the space, but is visually appealing to you as well.

Color It In

If you’re working on a budget, the quickest and easiest ways to help work toward the room of your dreams is to incorporate a new color palette in with your existing pieces. Perhaps this means going a few shades lighter or darker than the current hue on the wall. It could also mean adding a few new throw pillows or other home accessories into the mix to visually shake things up. Color is important, so don’t neglect it once you get to that point.

No matter how you choose to tackle this project, keep in mind that it doesn’t have to be done all at once. If you’re working on a limited budget, it’s okay to piece the room together as you go along rather than all at once. Home decor isn’t instant, it’s ever changing and you may find that what you thought was your dream room one year, isn’t exactly that in the next year.