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Commercial and Multifamily Mortgage Debt Sees Growth in Early 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, commercial and multifamily mortgage debt outstanding rose by $46.8 billion, an increase of 1.0%, reaching a total of $4.81 trillion, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). The rise was largely driven by a $19.9 billion increase (0.9%) in multifamily mortgage debt, which grew to $2.16 trillion.

Despite a decrease in origination volumes, MBA’s Associate Vice President of Commercial Real Estate Research, Reggie Booker, noted that the overall increase in debt reflects the ongoing demand for real estate investment and the extended duration of existing loans.

The four major investor groups in commercial and multifamily mortgages are banks and thrifts (38% of total mortgages), federal agency and government-sponsored enterprise (GSE) portfolios and mortgage-backed securities (MBS) (22%), life insurance companies (16%), and CMBS, CDO, and other asset-backed securities (ABS) (13%).

Notably, in the first quarter, CMBS, CDO, and ABS holdings saw the largest dollar increase, up by $16.2 billion (2.6%). Banks and thrifts followed with a $13.1 billion (0.7%) increase, while agency and GSE portfolios and MBS rose by $7.5 billion (0.7%). Life insurance companies also grew their holdings by $6.1 billion (0.8%).

For multifamily mortgages, the largest portion (50%) of the debt is held by agency and GSE portfolios and MBS, followed by banks and thrifts with 30%, and life insurance companies holding 11%. In terms of dollar increases, banks and thrifts saw the most growth in multifamily mortgages, adding $10.0 billion (1.6%).

Overall, the multifamily sector continues to see significant interest, with REITs seeing the largest percentage growth in their mortgage holdings, up by 10.9%. However, private pension funds experienced a notable decline in both commercial and multifamily mortgage holdings.

The data for this report is based on information from the Federal Reserve, the FDIC, and Trepp LLC, offering insights into the state of commercial and multifamily mortgage debt as of early 2025. Read the original report here.

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EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today! 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Tips to Help You Prepare for a Home Remodel

Embarking on a home remodel is an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning to ensure the process goes smoothly. Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen, add a new bathroom, or pursue a complete overhaul of your space, here are some tips to help better prepare you for a successful remodeling project.

1. Do your research

Before diving into any remodel, it’s important to understand the scope of your project. Research what the average investment is for your type of remodel and get an idea of your expected Return on Investment (ROI). This will not only help you set realistic expectations but also allow you to plan accordingly, ensuring your remodel adds long-term value to your home.

2. Consider your long-term goals

Think beyond the current trends and focus on your long-term needs and desires for your home. A remodel should align with both your current lifestyle and future plans. Whether you’re planning to stay in your home for decades or hoping to increase its market value for resale, planning for the future will ensure your remodel continues to meet your needs.

3. Establish a budget

One of the most important steps in any remodeling project is setting a clear budget and sharing it with your contractor once you’ve selected one. Be upfront about your financial limits so you can work as a team to create a plan that respects your budget. At JFC Remodeling, we prioritize transparency and will guide you in making cost-effective decisions without compromising on quality.

4. Search for trusted, reputable professionals

Start by asking people you trust for recommendations. Beyond word-of-mouth, use advanced search tools and platforms to review remodelers, check their portfolios, and read client reviews. Finding a qualified professional will ensure that your vision is in capable hands.

5. Ask the ‘right’ questions when considering a contractor

While timelines and costs are key considerations, it’s just as important to inquire about the remodeler’s specialties and experience. Ask about previous projects similar to yours and how they handle challenges. At JFC Remodeling, we’re more than happy to discuss our expertise and show you how we’ve successfully completed projects similar to yours.

6. Check credentials

Do your due diligence by calling references and reading online reviews. This will give you a better understanding of what it’s like to work with your remodeler and help you feel more confident in your decision.

7. Thoroughly read the contract!

Contracts are legally binding documents meant to protect both parties. It’s essential to review every detail carefully and read the entire contract. Ask questions if something is unclear, and request revisions or amendments for any content you disagree with. Be sure to speak up and advocate for yourself as a homeowner, while remaining respectful. Most contractors are happy to clarify any points to ensure everything is clear before moving forward.

8. Know your design

The design is the heart of your remodel, so take your time browsing online and collecting ideas that resonate with you. Whether it’s a specific color scheme, layout, or material, understanding what you like—and sharing it with the remodeler—helps ensure your vision comes to life exactly as you imagine.

9. Choose your design selections early

Making decisions early on helps keep the project on schedule. From materials to finishes, selecting items in advance ensures we can source everything on time and avoid delays. Proactive decision-making helps keep your project moving smoothly and ensures you get the results you expect.

10. Develop a communication plan

Effective communication is key to any successful project. Establish clear lines of communication with your contractor and make sure both parties understand how updates will be provided. Regular check-ins throughout the process will help ensure everything stays on track and allow you to address any questions or concerns as they arise.

Remodeling your home can be stressful and overwhelming at times; however, with careful planning and the right professional support, the process can also be exciting and rewarding. At JFC Remodeling, we’re dedicated to bringing your dream vision to life while respecting your budget and timeline.

Ready to start your remodel? Contact us today, and let’s make your dream space a reality!

JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Maximize Efficiency and Savings with Busway & Bus Plugs

Save money and avoid costly downtime by upgrading or replacing deteriorated busway and bus plugs with reconditioned to enhance your facility’s operations. By making this smart investment, you ensure the long-term reliability of your electrical system while improving overall efficiency and performance. Reconditioned and safety-tested bus plugs offer significant savings over new equipment while maintaining high reliability and performance. These bus plugs undergo rigorous testing and inspection to meet industry standards, safeguarding your system’s integrity and ensuring dependable operation. Additionally, used and reconditioned options are often more readily available, reducing lead times and enabling faster upgrades, helping to minimize disruptions and keep your business running smoothly.

The J&P Electrical Guarantee

Not only can you save 50-75% compared to the cost of new equipment, but you can also trust that our reconditioned products are completely rebuilt, inspected, and tested to look and perform like new. At J&P Electrical, we specialize in producing high-quality reconditioned equipment. Our rigorous process starts with products that have a UL listing from the manufacturer. Each part is disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and painted with a durable acrylic enamel before being reassembled. Finally, all equipment is tested multiple times to ensure it meets or exceeds the manufacturer’s UL certification, with dielectric voltage withstand testing covering phase-to-phase and phase-to-ground (neutral). The result is equipment that is as reliable and durable as new, at a fraction of the cost—and all products come with a full one-year warranty.

Buyer’s Checklist for Bus Plugs

Ensure you choose the right bus plug by considering:

  • Amperage: Match the bus plug’s capacity to your electrical load.
  • Grounding: Opt for options that ensure safety and system stability.
  • Fusible or Breaker Style: Select based on cost considerations or operational needs.
  • Voltage: Verify compatibility with your system’s electrical potential.
  • Bus Plug Wiring: Ensure compatibility for effective connection and performance.

FAQ’s About Selecting the Right Bus Plug Replacements

  • What factors should determine the amperage rating for my bus plugs?

When selecting the amperage rating for your bus plugs, consider your system’s electrical load, the maximum current the bus plug can handle, and potential future expansion needs. Selecting the correct amperage helps prevent overloading, enhances safety, and prolongs the lifespan of your electrical components.

  • Should I choose fusible or breaker-style bus plugs?

Your specific requirements will guide your choice between fusible or breaker-style bus plugs. Fusible bus plugs are cost-effective and can handle higher fault currents, but they need fuse replacement after each use. On the other hand, breaker-style bus plugs are resettable with adjustable trip settings, reducing downtime and offering greater operational flexibility, though they typically come with a higher initial cost.

  • How crucial is proper grounding, and what options are available?

Proper grounding is crucial for ensuring electrical safety and achieving optimal system performance. It safeguards against faults and surges, reducing the risk of equipment damage while ensuring compliance with safety regulations. To ensure a secure and stable electrical environment, make sure the bus plugs you choose offer adequate grounding options that align with your system’s needs.

  • What voltage ratings are suitable for my electrical system?

Verify your electrical system’s voltage requirements to ensure safe compatibility with the bus plugs. For safe and efficient operation, the bus plug’s voltage rating should be equal to or greater than your system’s operating voltage. Common voltage ratings include 120V, 208V, 240V, 480V, and 600V. To prevent malfunctions or safety hazards, ensure the bus plugs you select can handle the voltage in your system.

  • What are the advantages of reconditioned bus plugs compared to new ones?

These options offer substantial cost savings while delivering reliability and performance comparable to new components. Reconditioned bus plugs undergo comprehensive testing to ensure they meet industry standards, making them a practical and cost-effective solution for maintaining and upgrading your electrical system.

For assistance, contact JP Electrical to explore how our reconditioned, safety-tested busway and bus plugs can meet your electrical needs.

J&P Electrical is a full-service electrical supply company. At J&P, we source contractors, end-users, and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned, and obsolete electrical equipment. We also purchase a wide range of heavy industrial electrical equipment such as bus plugs, bus duct, transformers, circuit breakers, fuses, and switchboards. Call us at 877-844-5514 for assistance. 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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New MRI Study Links MASLD to Accelerated Brain Aging: What You Need to Know

A recent MRI study published in Liver International reveals a strong connection between metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and accelerated brain aging, irrespective of age or apolipoprotein E4 (APOE ɛ4) carrier status. The study analyzed data from over 26,000 participants, including individuals with various subtypes of MASLD, such as those with increased alcohol intake (MetALD).

The findings show that people with MASLD/related liver disease exhibited a brain age 1.07 years older than their chronological age, compared to just 0.19 years for those without MASLD. Particularly, those with MetALD had a brain age 1.87 years older. This association remained even after accounting for factors like age and APOE ɛ4 carrier status.

Notably, MetALD, which is linked to heavy alcohol consumption, showed the most significant brain aging effect. Excessive alcohol intake has been linked to brain atrophy and neuron loss, further compounding brain aging. The study also suggests that addressing low-grade systemic inflammation could help mitigate the accelerated brain aging associated with MASLD, with roughly 13.5% of the MASLD-brain aging link potentially preventable through this intervention.

Key Findings:

  1. MASLD and Brain Aging: Individuals with MASLD, including MetALD, experience significant brain aging, even in middle-aged adults and those without the APOE ɛ4 allele.
  1. MetALD’s Impact: MetALD shows the greatest brain aging effect, highlighting alcohol’s damaging role in accelerating brain aging.
  1. Inflammation as a Target: Addressing low-grade inflammation could prevent up to 13.5% of the MASLD-related brain aging, offering a potential intervention for brain health.

This study emphasizes the importance of early intervention and management of MASLD in reducing the risk of accelerated brain aging, underscoring the critical role of proactive care in promoting long-term brain and liver health.

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RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Gunite Swimming Pools: Installation & Restoration in Michigan

Why Choose Gunite?
When installing a pool in your backyard, you have several options, but gunite swimming pools stand out as a top choice due to their exceptional durability and design flexibility. Unlike traditional poured concrete pools, which require a wooden framework to hold the shape, gunite pools utilize a rebar framework that is sprayed with a mixture of concrete and sand, creating a strong, durable structure built to last. This method allows for virtually unlimited design possibilities, meaning your pool can be shaped to fit any vision.

In addition to its durability, gunite provides homeowners with a range of customizable finishes, from plaster in a variety of colors to high-end options made from pebbles or glass for a unique look. The versatility of gunite extends beyond design, offering the option to add features like waterfalls, custom steps, and more. This flexibility allows you to create a pool that aligns with your specific tastes and budget.

Gunite pools have become one of the most popular choices for homeowners due to their beauty, versatility, and lasting durability. If you’re considering installing an inground pool, working with a professional pool builder like Pound Pool Plastering, who offers clear building terms and a reliable construction timeline, ensures your project is completed on time and to your exact specifications.

Attached Hot Tubs: A Modern Touch
The combination of swimming pools and hot tubs has long been a staple of luxury backyard designs, and today’s trends are evolving. More homeowners are opting for hot tubs that are integrated with the pool, not just attached to the side but often elevated for a better view of the pool area. One of the latest innovations is creating a “hidden” hot tub design, where the hot tub seamlessly blends into the pool area, with walkways or negative edges to give the illusion of an invisible spa.

Hardscapes: Enhance Your Pool Area
While water is often associated with tranquility, the growing trend of hardscapes has added a bold new dimension to pool design. Hardscaping elements like pool decking and coping are no longer limited to traditional materials. Travertine, a natural stone known for its elegance and strength, is becoming one of the most sought-after choices due to its ability to stay cool even on the hottest summer days. For areas with high rainfall, pavers are an excellent choice for pool decks, offering enhanced drainage and minimizing moisture while adding a rustic charm to your outdoor space.

Incorporating these elements into your pool area ensures that your backyard is not only functional but also stylish, blending the beauty of water with the strength and elegance of hardscape materials. Whether designing a traditional or contemporary pool area, these options offer endless possibilities to enhance your outdoor living experience.

Providing a diverse selection of pool plaster finishes for both residential and commercial pools, as well as expert pool repair services. Contact Pound Pool Plastering today!

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Massive Internet Outage on June 12th Affecting Major Services Explained:

On Thursday, June 12, starting around 2:30 p.m. ET, widespread internet disruptions impacted several popular platforms, including Google services (Gmail, Google Meet), Cloudflare, Spotify, Discord, Twitch, and many others. Users across the globe reported difficulties accessing these sites and apps, with error messages surging on Down Detector.

By 3:30 p.m., many services showed signs of recovery, but intermittent issues persisted. Cloudflare acknowledged “broad service outages” and indicated that systems were recovering, though some disruptions were expected to continue. Meanwhile, Google Cloud reported issues with multiple products, including Gmail and Google Meet.

Other affected platforms included Discord, Etsy, Shopify, Pokémon Trading Card Game, MLB.tv, Snapchat, and DoorDash. These widespread outages were felt particularly by workers trying to access productivity tools like Google Meet, leading to frustration during work hours.

While the disruptions caused ripple effects across the internet, many websites appeared to be recovering by 3:35 p.m. The incident highlights the impact of disruptions to major hosting services like Cloudflare and Google Cloud.

What Caused the Service Outage?

A representative for the hosting platform, Cloudflare, pointed the blame at Google Cloud, stating that the issue was caused by “an outage of a 3rd party service that is a key dependency” for Cloudflare services.

Initial speculation focused on internet hosting platforms like Cloudflare and Google Cloud, both of which reported problems on Thursday. An initial update on the Cloudflare status page stated, “We are seeing a number of services suffer intermittent failures. We are continuing to investigate this and we will update this list as we assess the impact on a per-service level.” Meanwhile, the Google Cloud status page reported that “Multiple GCP products are experiencing service issues.”

What’s Happening at Google Cloud?

By 5:15 p.m. ET, Google Cloud reported that most products had recovered, although some “residual impacts” remained. A previous update indicated that the root cause had been identified, and appropriate mitigations were applied. Google stated, “Our infrastructure has recovered in all regions except us-central1. Google Cloud products that rely on the affected infrastructure are seeing recovery in multiple locations. Our engineers are aware of the customers still experiencing issues on us-central1 and multi-region/us and are actively working on full recovery. We do not have an ETA for full recovery.”

What Does Down Detector Say?

Starting around 2 p.m. ET on June 12, Down Detector saw a surge in user reports, with Google services, AI platforms, e-commerce sites, and social apps like Twitch, Discord, and Nintendo Switch Online all experiencing issues. The outage, largely caused by problems with Google Cloud, disrupted platforms including Spotify, Character.ai, Snapchat, UPS, Pokémon, and Google Workspace.

By 12:41 PT, Google confirmed the root cause had been identified and mitigated, though some regions continued to experience slower recovery. By 2 p.m. PT, Down Detector reported that the outage peaks had passed, with issues rapidly subsiding.

Ongoing Recovery and Further Updates

By 3:30 p.m. ET, many services had fully recovered, and issues began to subside. Cloudflare and Google Cloud confirmed that their systems were back to normal, and most affected companies reported that their services had been fully restored. The outage’s impact had significantly diminished by the evening, with users able to access their platforms without further disruptions.

Should any new information emerge, we will update this article accordingly.

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems delivers professional results for all your computer needs. We design, create, and code various custom software programs and websites. Additionally, we offer superior digital marketing services, including enhanced Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and paid advertising. We also repair and support commercial computer infrastructure, build custom systems and servers, and provide secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call (810)224-5252 or email info@cpsmi.com us!

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Effective Ant Pest Control in Michigan: Keep Your Home Ant-Free

Ants are one of the most common pests found in homes, and Michigan is no exception. With over 700 ant species in the U.S., about 25 of these are known to infest homes. While ants are small, their ability to form large, organized colonies can make them a serious nuisance. Ants are social insects that live in colonies, typically underground, with a queen and worker ants that perform various tasks, from gathering food to expanding the nest.

Ants are opportunistic feeders and will eat almost anything, but they’re particularly drawn to sweets, making your kitchen and pantry prime targets. Identifying ants is relatively simple: they have three distinct body parts—head, thorax, and abdomen—along with antennae. While they share a similar structure, ants vary in size and color, with common varieties being small or large, black or brown.

How to Spot an Ant Infestation in Your Home

If you notice ants inside your home, it could be a sign of an infestation. These industrious insects usually venture indoors in search of food, moisture, and shelter. Ants are most commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where food and water are readily available. It’s important to act quickly, as a single ant trail often indicates a larger colony nearby. The sooner you can address the problem, the easier it will be to prevent it from escalating.

Why You Need Professional Ant Extermination

While DIY methods might help temporarily control an ant problem, the most effective way to handle an infestation is by contacting a pest control professional. Experts are trained to accurately identify the ant species causing the issue and provide targeted treatments that will eliminate the colony at its source. Ant species can vary in behavior, and what works for one may not work for another, which is why professional pest control is recommended.

How to Prevent and Control Ants in Your Home

Preventing an ant infestation starts with keeping your home clean and sealed. Here are some steps you can take to discourage ants from moving in:

  1. Seal Entry Points: Close off cracks and crevices around doors, windows, and areas where utilities enter your home. Ants can easily slip through the smallest gaps.
  2. Proper Trash Management: Regularly dispose of garbage and use trash cans with tightly sealed lids to prevent ants from being attracted to food scraps.
  3. Clean Up Spills Immediately: Ants are highly attracted to food, especially sugary substances. Wipe up any spills promptly, especially in the kitchen and dining areas.
  4. Store Food Properly: Keep sweet foods like honey, sugar, and syrup in airtight containers to reduce the scent trail that attracts ants.
  5. Control Moisture: Ants thrive in moist environments. Fix leaky pipes and consider using a dehumidifier in areas prone to excess moisture, like basements and bathrooms.
  6. Landscaping Care: Remove old landscape materials, debris, and excess vegetation around your home. These can serve as nesting sites for ants and other pests.
  7. Routine Inspections: Periodically check your home for signs of an infestation. If you spot ants or other pests, address the issue early before it becomes a larger problem.

Why Ant Control Is Essential

While ants may seem harmless at first, they can quickly turn into a major issue if left unaddressed. Ants can contaminate food, damage property, and create unsanitary conditions. Additionally, certain species, like carpenter ants, can cause structural damage to wood by hollowing it out for nesting. Professional pest control services are key to ensuring that your home remains ant-free and safe from potential damage.

In Michigan, where ant infestations can be particularly persistent due to varying weather conditions, it’s essential to take preventive steps year-round. By following these guidelines and working with a professional pest control service, you can protect your home from ants and other unwanted pests.

Have ants? Don’t let a small bug problem become a big problem; contact Northern Pest today!

Northern Pest: Our family serving yours! We are licensed and insured to provide insect and wildlife pest control. Our crew has the expertise to track wildlife entry points and remove pests of all kinds, including our licensed builders, who can make any of the necessary repairs caused by wildlife. Northern Pest is a member of the MDAT and the NWCOA. We are certified by the IICRC to offer professional mold mitigation services caused by animal damage. At Northern Pest, we do it all!

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Transform Your Basement with JFC Remodeling: Expert Design and Craftsmanship

Remodeling your basement offers the opportunity to create a personalized space that perfectly fits your needs, whether it’s for entertainment, relaxation, or additional living space. The skilled craftsmen at JFC Remodeling guide you through every step of the design and remodeling process, ensuring your vision is brought to life. We take pride in our attention to detail, and by the end of the project, you’ll have a beautifully finished basement that enhances your home and suits your family’s lifestyle.

What is the Average Cost to Refinish a Basement?

On average, finishing a basement can cost around $32,000, although the price range can vary significantly from $2,800 to over $100,000. Several factors influence the cost, such as the square footage, materials, permits, appliances, and labor involved. Typically, basement finishing costs range from $7 to $23 per square foot, depending on the scope of your project.

What Adds the Most Value When Finishing a Basement?

Maximizing your basement’s value involves making design choices that increase both functionality and appeal. Here are some features that add substantial value:

  • Natural Light: If possible, consider creating a walk-out basement. Not only does this allow more natural light, but it also makes the space more inviting for you and attractive to potential buyers.
  • Indoor/Outdoor Fireplace: Positioning a fireplace to be enjoyed from both the interior and exterior of the basement creates a unique and cozy atmosphere. This feature adds value and enhances the indoor-outdoor flow of your home.
  • Wet Bars and Wine Rooms: Wet bars remain a popular choice for basement remodels, while wine rooms are also gaining attention. These dedicated storage spaces are becoming increasingly trendy, especially when tucked into underutilized areas such as beneath staircases. Wine rooms offer optimal storage and temperature control, and the options for wet bars range from simple bar setups to extended dining and entertainment areas.
  • Flooring: Carpeting has fallen out of favor in basements, with luxury vinyl plank (LVP) emerging as the top choice. LVP is durable, easy to clean, and comes in a variety of styles and colors, making it an ideal option for basement flooring.
  • Optional Rooms: Many homeowners are forgoing a guest bedroom and instead creating a functional space for daily use, such as a home office, exercise room, or playroom. If you opt for an exercise room, consider adding a steam shower or sauna to elevate the experience.

By prioritizing these features in your basement remodel, you’ll not only enhance the enjoyment of your home but also increase its overall value. Let the experts at JFC Remodeling help you bring your basement vision to life.

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JFC Remodeling is committed to providing top-quality home reconstruction services to clients throughout Livingston County. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, our licensed contractors create unique, individualized, and polished renovations. Whether the site requires improvement, repair, or is a new construction, you can trust our experts to deliver remarkable results. Call or email us to learn more.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Discovering the Benefits of VA Home Loans

For over 80 years, VA home loans have empowered countless Veterans to achieve homeownership. Despite the program’s extensive reach, many eligible Veterans remain unaware of its full scope.

Understanding VA Home Loans

VA home loans, facilitated by private lenders like banks and mortgage companies, offer Veterans, Servicemembers, and eligible surviving spouses a unique guaranty benefit. This ensures more favorable loan terms, including competitive interest rates and often no requirement for a downpayment or private mortgage insurance. The program supports various housing needs, from purchasing and building to repairing and adapting homes for personal occupancy.

Key Benefits

  • Purchase Loans: Facilitate home purchases with competitive interest rates and minimal financial hurdles.
  • Cash-Out Refinance Loans: Access home equity for needs like debt consolidation, education funding, or home improvements.
  • Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL): Also known as the Streamline Refinance Loan, it allows for refinancing existing VA loans to secure lower interest rates and reduce monthly payments.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility for VA home loan benefits is determined by factors such as length of service, duty status, and character of service. Recent expansions now include National Guard members with qualifying active service periods. Key requirements include satisfactory credit, sufficient income to meet obligations, and a valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE).

Additional Programs

  • Native American Direct Loan (NADL) Program: Supports Native American Veterans in purchasing, constructing, improving, or refinancing homes on Native American trust lands, requiring participation from tribal organizations.
  • Adapted Housing Grants: Provides grants for Veterans with service-related disabilities to secure suitable housing through Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) or Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) programs.

VA home loans serve as a pillar of support for veterans seeking to establish stable housing, offering versatile solutions tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. To learn more, visit the U.S Department of Veterans Affairs regarding VA Home Loans.

If you’re a Veteran or know a Veteran seeking housing, please share this valuable information and reach out to EB Mortgage for further assistance in navigating the VA home loan process.

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EB Mortgage is a locally owned mortgage company with experts in new home purchase, refinancing, and commercial loans. Our wholesale rates can’t be beaten. We offer more products, more options, and more solutions. Our “3C” Process is simple: complete our pre-approval request, consider options based on your requirements, and choose the offer that suits your needs best. Call us or e-mail us today! 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

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Effective Ant Pest Control in Colorado: Keep Your Home Ant-Free

Ants are one of the most common pests found in homes across Colorado. With over 700 species of ants in the U.S., about 25 of these are known to infest homes. Although ants are small, their ability to form large, well-organized colonies can quickly turn them into a serious nuisance. As social insects, ants live in colonies, usually underground, with a queen and worker ants that perform various tasks, such as gathering food and expanding the nest.

Ants are opportunistic feeders and will eat nearly anything, but they are especially drawn to sweets. This makes your kitchen and pantry prime targets. Identifying ants is relatively simple, as they have three distinct body parts: the head, thorax, and abdomen, along with antennae. While ants share a similar structure, they vary in size and color, with common species being small or large, black or brown.

How to Spot an Ant Infestation in Your Home

If you notice ants inside your Colorado home, it may be a sign of an infestation. These industrious insects typically venture indoors in search of food, moisture, and shelter. Ants are most commonly found in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where food and water are readily available. It’s important to act quickly, as a single ant trail often indicates a larger colony nearby. The sooner you address the problem, the easier it will be to prevent it from escalating.

Why You Need Professional Ant Extermination

While DIY methods can provide temporary relief, the most effective way to handle an ant infestation is by contacting a pest control professional. Experts are trained to identify the ant species causing the issue and offer targeted treatments that will eliminate the colony at its source. Since ant species can vary in behavior, what works for one species may not work for another. Professional pest control services ensure that the right solution is applied for long-lasting results.

How to Prevent and Control Ants in Your Home

Preventing an ant infestation in your Colorado home starts with maintaining cleanliness and sealing entry points. Here are some steps you can take to discourage ants from moving in:

  1. Seal Entry Points: Close off cracks and crevices around doors, windows, and areas where utilities enter your home. Ants can easily slip through even the smallest gaps.
  2. Proper Trash Management: Regularly dispose of garbage and use trash cans with tightly sealed lids to prevent attracting ants with food scraps.
  3. Clean Up Spills Immediately: Ants are highly attracted to food, especially sugary substances. Wipe up any spills promptly, particularly in the kitchen and dining areas.
  4. Store Food Properly: Keep sweet foods like honey, sugar, and syrup in airtight containers to reduce the scent trail that attracts ants.
  5. Control Moisture: Ants thrive in moist environments. Fix leaky pipes and consider using a dehumidifier in areas prone to excess moisture, such as basements and bathrooms.
  6. Landscaping Care: Remove old landscape materials, debris, and excess vegetation around your home. These can serve as nesting sites for ants and other pests.
  7. Routine Inspections: Periodically check your home for signs of an infestation. If you spot ants or other pests, address the issue early before it becomes a larger problem.

Why Ant Control Is Essential

Although ants may seem harmless at first, they can quickly turn into a major issue if left unaddressed. Ants can contaminate food, damage property, and create unsanitary conditions. Additionally, certain species, like carpenter ants, can cause structural damage to wood by hollowing it out for nesting. Professional pest control services are crucial to ensure your home remains ant-free and protected from potential damage.

In Colorado, where varying weather conditions can make ant infestations persistent, it’s essential to take preventive steps year-round. By following these guidelines and working with a professional pest control service, you can protect your home from ants and other unwanted pests.

Have ants? Don’t let a small bug problem become a big problem—contact Front Range Pest today!

Front Range Pest is your trusted, family-owned pest and wildlife control company serving central Colorado and southern Wyoming. Our certified technicians have the expertise and credentials to ensure effective pest management for your home or business. As your all-in-one insect and wildlife specialists, we offer peace of mind by identifying wildlife entry points, removing nuisance pests, sealing access areas, performing cleanup, and making essential repairs. Schedule an inspection with us today.

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.