Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Think Green & Beat the Winter Blues!
It's going to be another cold, hard winter. Many of us heat our homes with gas and/or fuel oil and are wondering what to expect from the cost of staying warm this winter. A little forethought can save hundreds and what used to be a list of small savings ideas, are now paying off much more quickly as fuel costs reach record highs. If you're thinking of upgrading your home in the name of energy efficiency, keeping these tips in mind will help you pay attention to energy efficient qualities of your home.
Here's a short list of things to think about to save some green this winter:
Heat goes out in the winter the same way it came in during the summer, through your windows and doors. Take your air conditioner out in the early fall. (I know, sounds simple, but you'd be surprised how many people leave them in, wrap them up with a plastic bag and let heat seep out around them all winter long). Also, take your screens out and install your storm windows for that extra layer of retention.
If your windows are old and drafty, get an estimate to replace them. Information is power and most window replacement companies are happy to provide you with a free estimate. Thus armed, you can take a look at last years heating bills and using a low estimate of about 20%, figure out your savings (don't forget, you'll save 20% of this years high fuel costs so inflate your last years numbers accordingly). New windows are a great investment that actually raise the value of your home and in many cases, installing energy efficient windows also means getting a nice little tax break in the spring, so figure this into your decision making equation.
If you decide not to invest in new windows but acknowledge that your windows are old and drafty, you might want to consider stopping by your building supply store for plastic window insulation kits. These are fairly low in cost (around $4-$10 each) and pretty easy to install.
Another great way to save money with a relatively low investment is to make sure that you have a programmable thermostat and THAT YOU PROGRAM IT! You can program your thermostat to lower your heat during the day and raise it slightly in the afternoon. Many homes already have a programmable thermostat but the homeowners haven't taken the time to learn the few easy steps required to program it. Now is the time to get serious about saving energy.
Shop around for your fuel and lock in if possible. Many fuel suppliers will allow you to commit to purchase a specific amount of fuel throughout the year and lock in at a somewhat lower rate. There may be some restrictions and requirements but it's worth taking a look at these savings.
Remember that the money you invest toward making your home energy efficient will save you money for as long as you own your home and add valuable equity that will maximize your profits if and when you ever decide to sell your home. Going Green means saving Green!
Here's a short list of things to think about to save some green this winter:
Heat goes out in the winter the same way it came in during the summer, through your windows and doors. Take your air conditioner out in the early fall. (I know, sounds simple, but you'd be surprised how many people leave them in, wrap them up with a plastic bag and let heat seep out around them all winter long). Also, take your screens out and install your storm windows for that extra layer of retention.
If your windows are old and drafty, get an estimate to replace them. Information is power and most window replacement companies are happy to provide you with a free estimate. Thus armed, you can take a look at last years heating bills and using a low estimate of about 20%, figure out your savings (don't forget, you'll save 20% of this years high fuel costs so inflate your last years numbers accordingly). New windows are a great investment that actually raise the value of your home and in many cases, installing energy efficient windows also means getting a nice little tax break in the spring, so figure this into your decision making equation.
If you decide not to invest in new windows but acknowledge that your windows are old and drafty, you might want to consider stopping by your building supply store for plastic window insulation kits. These are fairly low in cost (around $4-$10 each) and pretty easy to install.
Another great way to save money with a relatively low investment is to make sure that you have a programmable thermostat and THAT YOU PROGRAM IT! You can program your thermostat to lower your heat during the day and raise it slightly in the afternoon. Many homes already have a programmable thermostat but the homeowners haven't taken the time to learn the few easy steps required to program it. Now is the time to get serious about saving energy.
Shop around for your fuel and lock in if possible. Many fuel suppliers will allow you to commit to purchase a specific amount of fuel throughout the year and lock in at a somewhat lower rate. There may be some restrictions and requirements but it's worth taking a look at these savings.
Remember that the money you invest toward making your home energy efficient will save you money for as long as you own your home and add valuable equity that will maximize your profits if and when you ever decide to sell your home. Going Green means saving Green!
Labels: Energy Efficiency, Green, Heating and Cooling, windows
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Buying land in the Adirondacks
Land sales in the Adirondacks have been steadily climbing over recent years. Many land parcels have been in the same families for generations and the most recent owners have begun to recognize the value of this extremely desirable territory. This article will outline many important questions that you will want to have answered before investing in your Adirondack dream. If you're searching for the perfect getaway location to build a home or vacation residence, you may want to consider enlisting the aid of a local Realtor. Governed by a code of ethics and required to meet licensing requirements, these folks can offer invaluable assistance as you work through the steps below. In most cases, the seller of the property pays the realtors fees, so you can still work within a budget and take advantage of this great ally.
The most important aspect to ensure regarding any prospective property is that it can be developed to suit your needs. You will need to investigate whether the property is subject to any deed restrictions that may interfere with your building plans. If your property is in a development you will need to review a copy of the restrictive covenants of the development to ensure that your plans comply with any restrictions or guidelines established therein. You also want to review the deed to see if there are any easements or land use grants that have been applied to the property. The Adirondack Park Agency is an organization whose charge is to oversee the use of the land within the boundaries of the Adirondack Park. They have published a Citizens Guide to land use in the park which is available online through the GC Network website. Make contact with the APA early in your process and ensure that your plans for the property conform to APA regulations.
You'll need to investigate the availability of your utilities. Inquire as to whether the property has city or community water and/or sewer connections available. You may want to make the sale contingent upon the ability to install a septic system suitable to the size of your intended home. Is the property large enough to allow for a septic system, a well and the square footage of home that you want to build, all within applicable codes? Be sure that the property does not have any restrictions regarding the availability of water.
Locate the nearest electric pole and speak to the electric supplier to determine the estimated cost to bring electricity to this property. Internet use has become increasingly important; if this is a priority for you then you will want to know if cable is available as well. If not, find out what kind of alternative access is available and what costs are associated with obtaining it.
You will also need to investigate the accessibility of the land. Ask the seller if the land is accessible by public road. If this land is not accessible by public road you will need to verify that you have a deeded right of way that provides for your use as well as the use of future owners of your property. In a private road situation, you will want to find out if there is a road maintenance or association agreement in place to maintain the road and if so what rights and fees are associated with it.
You will need to ask the property owner about the previous uses of the property and inquire about any possible hazards on the land such as buried waste or fuel tanks. If these items exist you will want to predetermine the costs to remove them and whose responsibility it will be to do so. Make your sale contingent upon a satisfactory title search securing your interest in the property. It is also a good idea to initiate a new boundary survey of the property.
Local lenders and builders who have worked with others in the neighborhood or town are another great source of information. Speak with a local lender who has supplied nearby residences with construction loans. The same goes for builders of the nearby homes. These individuals have first hand knowledge of any potential pitfalls that may be encountered along the way.
To find a Realtor, Lender and/or a Builder, visit the Homeowners Resource page of the GC Network website. We've listed many of the forms that you will need along with many other helpful tips and advice designed to make building a home in the Adirondacks easier and more convenient.
The most important aspect to ensure regarding any prospective property is that it can be developed to suit your needs. You will need to investigate whether the property is subject to any deed restrictions that may interfere with your building plans. If your property is in a development you will need to review a copy of the restrictive covenants of the development to ensure that your plans comply with any restrictions or guidelines established therein. You also want to review the deed to see if there are any easements or land use grants that have been applied to the property. The Adirondack Park Agency is an organization whose charge is to oversee the use of the land within the boundaries of the Adirondack Park. They have published a Citizens Guide to land use in the park which is available online through the GC Network website. Make contact with the APA early in your process and ensure that your plans for the property conform to APA regulations.
You'll need to investigate the availability of your utilities. Inquire as to whether the property has city or community water and/or sewer connections available. You may want to make the sale contingent upon the ability to install a septic system suitable to the size of your intended home. Is the property large enough to allow for a septic system, a well and the square footage of home that you want to build, all within applicable codes? Be sure that the property does not have any restrictions regarding the availability of water.
Locate the nearest electric pole and speak to the electric supplier to determine the estimated cost to bring electricity to this property. Internet use has become increasingly important; if this is a priority for you then you will want to know if cable is available as well. If not, find out what kind of alternative access is available and what costs are associated with obtaining it.
You will also need to investigate the accessibility of the land. Ask the seller if the land is accessible by public road. If this land is not accessible by public road you will need to verify that you have a deeded right of way that provides for your use as well as the use of future owners of your property. In a private road situation, you will want to find out if there is a road maintenance or association agreement in place to maintain the road and if so what rights and fees are associated with it.
You will need to ask the property owner about the previous uses of the property and inquire about any possible hazards on the land such as buried waste or fuel tanks. If these items exist you will want to predetermine the costs to remove them and whose responsibility it will be to do so. Make your sale contingent upon a satisfactory title search securing your interest in the property. It is also a good idea to initiate a new boundary survey of the property.
Local lenders and builders who have worked with others in the neighborhood or town are another great source of information. Speak with a local lender who has supplied nearby residences with construction loans. The same goes for builders of the nearby homes. These individuals have first hand knowledge of any potential pitfalls that may be encountered along the way.
To find a Realtor, Lender and/or a Builder, visit the Homeowners Resource page of the GC Network website. We've listed many of the forms that you will need along with many other helpful tips and advice designed to make building a home in the Adirondacks easier and more convenient.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Contractors: How Important Is Your Business Card?
How important is your business card? Simply put, your business card is your most functional, useful tool for digging up new business. Can you attract and gain new business without a business card? Absolutely, just as you can dig a hole without a shovel, but let's face it, tools are designed to take advantage of a better way of doing things. They are generally inexpensive and highly effective when used properly.
Most everyone knows how to use a shovel; you place the pointed tip into the ground. Step on the rear of the head with your foot and leverage your weight to drive it into the ground before levering the handle to extract your earth, thus leaving a hole. Why am I going into detail about how to use a shovel when I just stated that everyone knows how? Well, because even though it seems like the simplest thing in the world to do, I wanted to remind you of all of the complex theories that come together to make it work optimally.
Using your business card is much the same and there are many ways that you can optimize the performance of your business card. The most important thing you should do, is to make certain that your business card reflects you, your personality and the essence of your business. The purpose of your card is to compliment the memory of you, so that later on, a person can see the card and call to mind your business and your most recent encounter. Or vice versa, they can see you and recall whom you are and what it is that you do from the information on your card. Thus, having made the connection and deciding to pursue it, they are fortunate enough to have your contact information at the ready.
I have seen thousands and thousands of business cards, many with varied shapes, sizes and gimmicks designed to make a strong, memorable impression. Some people collect them neatly in a book or binder designed specifically for this purpose but I can name a dozen people of my acquaintance who have a desk drawer just filled with them. If my card is in that drawer, you can spot it in a matter of seconds because it stands outs from the pile and it is highly recognizable with my big yellow construction helmet logo. I like to think those folks are reminded of me several times each week, when they open that drawer.
Another good thing to keep in mind when designing and purchasing your business cards is that you're going to use them, a lot. In fact, every chance you get. Purchase a good quantity, at least a thousand (you always get a better unit price this way anyhow!). There is no worse feeling than meeting someone, giving them your pitch, knowing that you've made a great contact and then leaving them empty handed. Don't let yourself run out and if you are getting low - order more early. When handing out your card, try to give two to each contact. One card is for the contact and one card is for him to pass on to a colleague or friend. A personal referral of this nature is one of the strongest possible sources of new business and I bet one closed deal more than pays for the entire box of business cards!
The last thing that is important to mention about purchasing business cards is this: buy from a local vendor or printer. In most cases they will cost you a little more from a local shop versus buying them online, right? Wrong, Wrong and Wrong! Yes, the "price" may be a little higher but the "cost" of not doing business locally is the cost of lost opportunities and it can be extremely high. These folks print business cards, how many people does your local printer see day in and day out? I guarantee you that he belongs to a Chamber of Commerce and that he engages in multiple networking opportunities in order to promote his own business, so he's probably pretty well known in your community. He's an amazing source of referrals! It is well worth that extra ten or fifteen dollars to do business with him and to maintain an established relationship with him. He's also going to guide and advise you on how to get the most out of your cards, you'll get better service and a better quality of card because he cares about keeping your business in business.
GC Network representatives get their cards from Tim Cooper of G & S Printing. Tim provides us with business cards that we are proud to hand out to our customers and contacts. We get guidance on the layout, a proof before going to print and Tim always makes arrangements to hand deliver the finished product. We have received countless referrals for new listings from Tim. Ask any of his clients and they will tell you that that local connection is a priceless benefit to doing business locally with G & S Printing.
Don't forget to send GC Network a handful of your business cards, we keep them handy and pass them along to folks needing your services while we are out networking, working at tradeshows and at various other opportunities! Contact us for mailing instructions.
Most everyone knows how to use a shovel; you place the pointed tip into the ground. Step on the rear of the head with your foot and leverage your weight to drive it into the ground before levering the handle to extract your earth, thus leaving a hole. Why am I going into detail about how to use a shovel when I just stated that everyone knows how? Well, because even though it seems like the simplest thing in the world to do, I wanted to remind you of all of the complex theories that come together to make it work optimally.
Using your business card is much the same and there are many ways that you can optimize the performance of your business card. The most important thing you should do, is to make certain that your business card reflects you, your personality and the essence of your business. The purpose of your card is to compliment the memory of you, so that later on, a person can see the card and call to mind your business and your most recent encounter. Or vice versa, they can see you and recall whom you are and what it is that you do from the information on your card. Thus, having made the connection and deciding to pursue it, they are fortunate enough to have your contact information at the ready.
I have seen thousands and thousands of business cards, many with varied shapes, sizes and gimmicks designed to make a strong, memorable impression. Some people collect them neatly in a book or binder designed specifically for this purpose but I can name a dozen people of my acquaintance who have a desk drawer just filled with them. If my card is in that drawer, you can spot it in a matter of seconds because it stands outs from the pile and it is highly recognizable with my big yellow construction helmet logo. I like to think those folks are reminded of me several times each week, when they open that drawer.
Another good thing to keep in mind when designing and purchasing your business cards is that you're going to use them, a lot. In fact, every chance you get. Purchase a good quantity, at least a thousand (you always get a better unit price this way anyhow!). There is no worse feeling than meeting someone, giving them your pitch, knowing that you've made a great contact and then leaving them empty handed. Don't let yourself run out and if you are getting low - order more early. When handing out your card, try to give two to each contact. One card is for the contact and one card is for him to pass on to a colleague or friend. A personal referral of this nature is one of the strongest possible sources of new business and I bet one closed deal more than pays for the entire box of business cards!
The last thing that is important to mention about purchasing business cards is this: buy from a local vendor or printer. In most cases they will cost you a little more from a local shop versus buying them online, right? Wrong, Wrong and Wrong! Yes, the "price" may be a little higher but the "cost" of not doing business locally is the cost of lost opportunities and it can be extremely high. These folks print business cards, how many people does your local printer see day in and day out? I guarantee you that he belongs to a Chamber of Commerce and that he engages in multiple networking opportunities in order to promote his own business, so he's probably pretty well known in your community. He's an amazing source of referrals! It is well worth that extra ten or fifteen dollars to do business with him and to maintain an established relationship with him. He's also going to guide and advise you on how to get the most out of your cards, you'll get better service and a better quality of card because he cares about keeping your business in business.
GC Network representatives get their cards from Tim Cooper of G & S Printing. Tim provides us with business cards that we are proud to hand out to our customers and contacts. We get guidance on the layout, a proof before going to print and Tim always makes arrangements to hand deliver the finished product. We have received countless referrals for new listings from Tim. Ask any of his clients and they will tell you that that local connection is a priceless benefit to doing business locally with G & S Printing.
Don't forget to send GC Network a handful of your business cards, we keep them handy and pass them along to folks needing your services while we are out networking, working at tradeshows and at various other opportunities! Contact us for mailing instructions.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
INTRODUCING PIZAZZ PAINTING, 1-800-PAINT-JOB
When you think about hiring a contractor to perform a service at your home or business, you start out with questions like: ""How much will this cost me?", "How long will the job take?", and "How do I know I'm hiring a trustworthy Contractor?" Here at GC Network, we've gathered forms and information to help you ferret out the answers to these questions and many more. However, when it came time to get to know Pizazz Painters, we found that owner Michael McGrath has done his very best to answer your questions before you even get the chance to ask them.
Pizazz Painting is all about eliminating the guesswork associated with any type of residential, commercial, interior or exterior paint job. Pizazz Paintings website, http://www.weneedapainter.com/, is set up to streamline the estimate process, provide you with helpful information and lists many great customer testimonials written by local residents who've enjoyed their Pizazz Painting experience.
Anyone who's ever picked up a paint roller thinking that it's easy and less expensive to undertake their own painting project, knows that by the time you get finished, (if indeed, you get finished) you've spent a small fortune on supplies and mistakes and a huge amount of time trying to get it just right. What seems like a fun project ends up being hard work and not a little stressful. Hiring a professional changes all that. You define all the variables up front with a free estimate for the time and investment you'll be making and you get to have fun picking out colors and applications with the guidance and advice of an experienced painter.
Pizazz Painting has over 19 years of experience in Interior & Exterior Painting, Power washing, Wallpapering, Decorative Finishes and Deck Staining. They have written, proven, processes for applying their trade and Pizazz provides no less than 30 references with every proposal, including before & after photos and testimonials. Their proposals all come with proof of insurance, letting you know that Pizazz is serious about their business.
Many of the testimonials for Pizazz Painting have customers referring to Michael "Mike" McGrath's personal involvement in their project from start, to finish, to the extra mile that is part of Mike's business philosophy. Education and knowledge is another facet of Pizazz Painting. Mike keeps up to date on new products as well as application techniques in order to offer his clients a wide range of services and solutions to their painting and wall covering needs. The secret of this companies success is found in that commitment to quality products, personal service and Mike's dedication to maintaining prompt and constant communications with his clients, delivering the promised results within the estimated budgets.
As Pizazz Painting celebrates it's 20th year in business, Mike & his wife, Nicole are also celebrating the 8/8/08 birth of their first baby, a son, who brings new perspective to his hard working dad. "It's amazing how the everyday stresses disappears when you look into the eyes of your child." We send our heartfelt "Congratulations" to the McGrath Family!
Mike's Fab Five or favorite recommendations are as follows, be sure to let them know that Mike (& GC Network) sent you:
Chad Viele, General Contractor
(518) 798-2204
St. Andrews Ace Hardware, A great family hardware store
(518) 792-2193
Starratt Plumbing & Heating, Greg Starratt
154 Glen Lake Road
Lake George, NY 12845
793-7346
Panera Bread, Frank Snyder
820 State Route 9
Queensbury, NY 12804
(518) 761-6957
Four Star Flooring, Hank Freebern
102 Quaker Road
Queensbury, NY 12804
(518) 745-5250
Pizazz Painting is all about eliminating the guesswork associated with any type of residential, commercial, interior or exterior paint job. Pizazz Paintings website, http://www.weneedapainter.com/, is set up to streamline the estimate process, provide you with helpful information and lists many great customer testimonials written by local residents who've enjoyed their Pizazz Painting experience.
Anyone who's ever picked up a paint roller thinking that it's easy and less expensive to undertake their own painting project, knows that by the time you get finished, (if indeed, you get finished) you've spent a small fortune on supplies and mistakes and a huge amount of time trying to get it just right. What seems like a fun project ends up being hard work and not a little stressful. Hiring a professional changes all that. You define all the variables up front with a free estimate for the time and investment you'll be making and you get to have fun picking out colors and applications with the guidance and advice of an experienced painter.
Pizazz Painting has over 19 years of experience in Interior & Exterior Painting, Power washing, Wallpapering, Decorative Finishes and Deck Staining. They have written, proven, processes for applying their trade and Pizazz provides no less than 30 references with every proposal, including before & after photos and testimonials. Their proposals all come with proof of insurance, letting you know that Pizazz is serious about their business.
Many of the testimonials for Pizazz Painting have customers referring to Michael "Mike" McGrath's personal involvement in their project from start, to finish, to the extra mile that is part of Mike's business philosophy. Education and knowledge is another facet of Pizazz Painting. Mike keeps up to date on new products as well as application techniques in order to offer his clients a wide range of services and solutions to their painting and wall covering needs. The secret of this companies success is found in that commitment to quality products, personal service and Mike's dedication to maintaining prompt and constant communications with his clients, delivering the promised results within the estimated budgets.
As Pizazz Painting celebrates it's 20th year in business, Mike & his wife, Nicole are also celebrating the 8/8/08 birth of their first baby, a son, who brings new perspective to his hard working dad. "It's amazing how the everyday stresses disappears when you look into the eyes of your child." We send our heartfelt "Congratulations" to the McGrath Family!
Mike's Fab Five or favorite recommendations are as follows, be sure to let them know that Mike (& GC Network) sent you:
Chad Viele, General Contractor
(518) 798-2204
St. Andrews Ace Hardware, A great family hardware store
(518) 792-2193
Starratt Plumbing & Heating, Greg Starratt
154 Glen Lake Road
Lake George, NY 12845
793-7346
Panera Bread, Frank Snyder
820 State Route 9
Queensbury, NY 12804
(518) 761-6957
Four Star Flooring, Hank Freebern
102 Quaker Road
Queensbury, NY 12804
(518) 745-5250
Labels: Contractors, decorator, painters, painting, wallpaper
Thursday, August 14, 2008
The Adirondack Economy, Whats your outlook?
Recently, the Glens Falls National Bank and Trust Co. ran an ad titled Turn down the Gloom and Doom in the Post Star and The Chronicle. It was a very positive ad so I find it kind of interesting that so many area residents kicked up a buzz about it, but the ad definitely seems to have people talking. Todd Shimkus, President of our Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, commented on the thought provoking ad in the Chambers Blog saying 'kudos to Glens Falls National for giving us some perspective and a chance to reflect on the good things that we might otherwise overlook'. A handful of folks that I've spoken with tend to agree with Mr. Shimkus.
It's about time someone cried out in protest, not just of our economic situation but of the way we're choosing to react to it.
Look around at all of the new construction and new enterprise in our area and wonder about the decision making that led up to the implementation of these ventures. It seems that those executives and businessmen aren't building in fear of a downward spiraling economy but are building in anticipation of a growing and thriving one.
While there just isn't any denying that things are tight and that we are all feeling the effects of a tough economy, history and logic tell us that the economy will right itself in time. You can make a lot of guesses about how and when that will happen or you can look ahead to where you want to be when it does, and then, just maybe you can construct your own path from one place to the other.
Maybe that's the point to what Glens Falls National, the ARCC and all the others are trying to tell us. Think forward to a better time and in between that time and this one, lies the way to get through it all. If you're stuck in wallowing in the mud, you have to choose not to wallow but to look toward the solid ground and chart a careful course to surer footing. Many of us have been wallowing in that pit of mud, commiserating with each other about how much mud there is, how thick and black it is, wondering how much worse it will get. In doing so, we've inadvertently accepted an outlook filled with Gloom and Doom.
This week some of our communities leaders have taken a stand against the demoralizing negativity and have pointed out a way to a better tomorrow. It happens by refusing to willingly participate in a recession. Maybe we can't change the events affecting us, but we can change our responses, and it's our responses that determine our outcome. Reach out and grab the hand of progress, then, reach back and offer it to someone else. YES, let's Turn Down the Gloom and Doom!
It's about time someone cried out in protest, not just of our economic situation but of the way we're choosing to react to it.
Look around at all of the new construction and new enterprise in our area and wonder about the decision making that led up to the implementation of these ventures. It seems that those executives and businessmen aren't building in fear of a downward spiraling economy but are building in anticipation of a growing and thriving one.
While there just isn't any denying that things are tight and that we are all feeling the effects of a tough economy, history and logic tell us that the economy will right itself in time. You can make a lot of guesses about how and when that will happen or you can look ahead to where you want to be when it does, and then, just maybe you can construct your own path from one place to the other.
Maybe that's the point to what Glens Falls National, the ARCC and all the others are trying to tell us. Think forward to a better time and in between that time and this one, lies the way to get through it all. If you're stuck in wallowing in the mud, you have to choose not to wallow but to look toward the solid ground and chart a careful course to surer footing. Many of us have been wallowing in that pit of mud, commiserating with each other about how much mud there is, how thick and black it is, wondering how much worse it will get. In doing so, we've inadvertently accepted an outlook filled with Gloom and Doom.
This week some of our communities leaders have taken a stand against the demoralizing negativity and have pointed out a way to a better tomorrow. It happens by refusing to willingly participate in a recession. Maybe we can't change the events affecting us, but we can change our responses, and it's our responses that determine our outcome. Reach out and grab the hand of progress, then, reach back and offer it to someone else. YES, let's Turn Down the Gloom and Doom!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Thinking of Building or Remodeling in the Adirondack/Saratoga Region?
Introducing GC Network, a network of Upstate New Yorks Contractors, Suppliers and Residential Construction Tradesmen.
Visit our hot new website http://www.gcnetwork.net/ - The Place to Find The People You Need for Your Next Residential Construction Project!
In todays day and age finding a contractor, supplier or specialist can be really tough. The wave of Cellular telephones and Cable telephone providers has caused the various telephone books to miss listing hundreds of qualified contractors each year. You know that they are out there but where?
They are on GC Network, thousands of them and they want your business!
GC Network has scoured Washington, Warren, Saratoga and Essex Counties to find them for you. We have brought them all together to one website designed to provide you with the ultimate network of builders, remodelers, specialty trades, suppliers, manufacturers and even provided you with many of the forms you will need in order to check references, request bids, estimate and order supplies and much more!
Whether your construction project is large or small, you will find the people and resources you need to get the job done here at GC Network. Registration is easy and FREE, so create a personal folder in order to store your chosen contacts, this will save you valuable time on future searches. If you are having trouble finding exactly what you need, please send us an email with the details and you will experience the power of the network as we locate your information and provide you with a connection.
We will not sell or share your personal information unless you specifically request that we do so, so registration is safe as well as FREE! Please let your GC Network contacts know that you found them listed at http://www.gcnetwork.net/ so that they, too, can enjoy being part of a complete, comprehensive and powerful network that works!
GC Network also has a Blog! We will use this forum to share information, resources and advice, along with introducing you to our listing contractors, informing you about events and responding to your questions and needs. We will occasionally publish articles on subjects that we feel will be of interest to our customers and/or network members and we encourage you to let us know what we can do to bring more value to the site to make it bigger and better. Our network members work hard at their trades and do not always have the time to get online with information and answers to questions but if you have a question, whether it's specific or more general, share it with us and we will get you the answers through our vast network of highly skilled and knowledgeable professionals.
Visit http://www.gcnetwork.net/ today and do not forget to Tell a Friend about us!
Visit our hot new website http://www.gcnetwork.net/ - The Place to Find The People You Need for Your Next Residential Construction Project!
In todays day and age finding a contractor, supplier or specialist can be really tough. The wave of Cellular telephones and Cable telephone providers has caused the various telephone books to miss listing hundreds of qualified contractors each year. You know that they are out there but where?
They are on GC Network, thousands of them and they want your business!
GC Network has scoured Washington, Warren, Saratoga and Essex Counties to find them for you. We have brought them all together to one website designed to provide you with the ultimate network of builders, remodelers, specialty trades, suppliers, manufacturers and even provided you with many of the forms you will need in order to check references, request bids, estimate and order supplies and much more!
Whether your construction project is large or small, you will find the people and resources you need to get the job done here at GC Network. Registration is easy and FREE, so create a personal folder in order to store your chosen contacts, this will save you valuable time on future searches. If you are having trouble finding exactly what you need, please send us an email with the details and you will experience the power of the network as we locate your information and provide you with a connection.
We will not sell or share your personal information unless you specifically request that we do so, so registration is safe as well as FREE! Please let your GC Network contacts know that you found them listed at http://www.gcnetwork.net/ so that they, too, can enjoy being part of a complete, comprehensive and powerful network that works!
GC Network also has a Blog! We will use this forum to share information, resources and advice, along with introducing you to our listing contractors, informing you about events and responding to your questions and needs. We will occasionally publish articles on subjects that we feel will be of interest to our customers and/or network members and we encourage you to let us know what we can do to bring more value to the site to make it bigger and better. Our network members work hard at their trades and do not always have the time to get online with information and answers to questions but if you have a question, whether it's specific or more general, share it with us and we will get you the answers through our vast network of highly skilled and knowledgeable professionals.
Visit http://www.gcnetwork.net/ today and do not forget to Tell a Friend about us!
Labels: building, Contractors, Introduction to GC Network Blog
Monday, August 11, 2008
HELP WANTED: SNOWPLOWER CONTRACTORS
GC Network is looking to add snowplowing businesses to our listings. Last year, we spoke with a lot of people on the lookout for someone to plow snow from their residential driveways and it seemed as though there were less folks offering this valuable service.
Homeowners, if you are looking for someone to plow your driveway, it is important that you recognize all of the aspects involved in getting your job done. We believe that one of the reasons that residential snow plowing contractors are hard to find is that the costs of fuel and liability insurance are making it difficult for them to make money by providing this service.
Often, it is not the size of the driveway that determined the majority of the fee; it is the cost of getting to that driveway. We all know that gas is horrendously expensive today and it is taking a huge toll on all of our tradesmen especially those involved in over the road activities such as snow plowing. However, there is a great way to combat this cost. Talk to your neighbors, if you can get together with three or four of them, you can offer your snow plow company a very attractive situation and chances are, if he can save money by plowing a handful of properties in a concentrated area, he will be happy to share some of that savings with you. We love this idea because less traveling to and from jobs means using less energy and expelling less waste. You have just done something Green in the midst of all that snow!
Gone are the days of the non-professional snow plowing service. Many businesses and individuals have learned the hard way that having liability insurance is a must. We have all heard those stories about the snow plow guy who pulls someone who had gone off the road in a storm out of a ditch, only to be later sued for damaging her bumper. It is not easy being a Good Samaritan anymore and so you can expect to pay your snow plowing fees via invoice versus a little cash and a handshake.
Your snow plow driver is a professional and a business man, much the same as any other contractor you might hire to provide a service at your home. They are great people who work long hours in risky weather to earn the fees associated with their services. Ours even jumps out of the truck to shovel the walkway. I am sure it is included in his fee but on a cold, snowy morning I am very grateful for this extra service!
If you have a terrific snowplowing contractor, send him to GC Network so that we can tell all your friends and neighbors about him!
Homeowners, if you are looking for someone to plow your driveway, it is important that you recognize all of the aspects involved in getting your job done. We believe that one of the reasons that residential snow plowing contractors are hard to find is that the costs of fuel and liability insurance are making it difficult for them to make money by providing this service.
Often, it is not the size of the driveway that determined the majority of the fee; it is the cost of getting to that driveway. We all know that gas is horrendously expensive today and it is taking a huge toll on all of our tradesmen especially those involved in over the road activities such as snow plowing. However, there is a great way to combat this cost. Talk to your neighbors, if you can get together with three or four of them, you can offer your snow plow company a very attractive situation and chances are, if he can save money by plowing a handful of properties in a concentrated area, he will be happy to share some of that savings with you. We love this idea because less traveling to and from jobs means using less energy and expelling less waste. You have just done something Green in the midst of all that snow!
Gone are the days of the non-professional snow plowing service. Many businesses and individuals have learned the hard way that having liability insurance is a must. We have all heard those stories about the snow plow guy who pulls someone who had gone off the road in a storm out of a ditch, only to be later sued for damaging her bumper. It is not easy being a Good Samaritan anymore and so you can expect to pay your snow plowing fees via invoice versus a little cash and a handshake.
Your snow plow driver is a professional and a business man, much the same as any other contractor you might hire to provide a service at your home. They are great people who work long hours in risky weather to earn the fees associated with their services. Ours even jumps out of the truck to shovel the walkway. I am sure it is included in his fee but on a cold, snowy morning I am very grateful for this extra service!
If you have a terrific snowplowing contractor, send him to GC Network so that we can tell all your friends and neighbors about him!
Labels: Snow plow contractors winter service
