How Much Does Landscape Design Cost?
1/15/2019
How Much Does Landscape Design Cost In PortlandSample Landscape Design Updated 12/18 to reflect the current cost of landscape design. When you hire a landscape designer you are paying them to develop a plan for your property. This usually involves drawings that show your landscape from above. You can see placement and relative sizes of proposed elements. Plants are placed, lighting fixtures are specified- the irrigation system layout may even be involved. This design, once in hand, can be given to licensed landscape contractors to bid and install. But what does it actually cost to get a landscape design completed? In general, a full landscape design will cost $500 - $5000. (Ross NW Watergardens usually charges between $1500 and $3000.) Some landscape designers charge an initial consultation fee, ranging from $100 - $250. (We have no initial consultation fee.) What factors affect price? Modern Landscape Design by Ben Bowen of Ross NW Watergardens
There are obviously a lot of factors that effect what you pay for a landscape design. But, with the knowledge above you at least have an idea of what your design project could cost. The only way to find out for sure is to contact a local landscape designer and ask!
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Bottling it up
1/15/2019
The road to vermouth does not always involve sorrow. I had not stayed with my father the night he died. He was alone. I had not known he would be, but the night before, when Vince and I left the hospital, my body collapsed in grief. It knew, if I wasn't sure, that I would not see him alive, again. I never cried in the room with him - I never wanted him to see that sorrow, or to feel anyone else's stress. And so at unexpected times in those five days I would have to pull the car over, or risk accident. When the call came to the house in the 4.30am dark, I went to sit with him for the last time. The small dark nursing sister was there, and I was glad she had been on duty. Looking up into my eyes, she held my arm firmly and told me she was sorry. On a previous night, she had held my shoulder with that same firmness as I sat beside him, reading him childhood stories, from books whose pages were falling apart. The ward staff were kind. The previous day I was brought a tray of coffee, and asked if I would prefer hot or cold milk. And there was a cookie. I don't like cookies, but I ate that one, very carefully. Immediately afterwards, that final morning, the shocking bureaucracy and decision making of death evicted any possibility of mourning. But in the blank days after my father's cremation, and when my husband's warmth had returned to New York, I began to gather wild flowers and fynbos herbs from the mountain, the surrounding green spaces, and my mother's garden. In small jars each plant began infusing in good vodka. Elderflowers and wild plums began to ferment. On the last day of 2018 I blended and bottled the vermouth. That year is over. And from its end there is a local alchemy that tells the story of this Cape Town summer. Vermouth captures time and place like nothing else I know. When I open it in Brooklyn, sometime in a new year whose days remain to be filled, I know I will cry. __________________________ (Yes, there is a vermouth recipe) In a few weeks I'll be publishing my list of where online gambling sites are located. A question that arose in the Netherlands is in regards to the location of PokerStars, the largest online poker site. An excerpt from my 2018 list shows:
Why is this a big deal? Taxes. PokerStars.com is based on the Isle of Man. The Isle of Man is a self-governing British Crown Dependency. It is not part of the European Union. The Isle of Man is located in the Irish Sea. Malta is another island; it's located near Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea. Malta is a member of the European Union. PokerStars.eu is based in Malta. This matters for taxes in the Netherlands. If you're a resident of the Netherlands and you play on PokerStars.com, you owe 29% tax on your winnings; however, if you play on PokerStars.eu, you don't. Needless to say, Dutch residents play on PokerStars.eu. Except the Dutch Tax Office disagreed. They held that since PokerStars.eu is owned by the Rational Group (the parent of PokerStars), and the Rational Group is based on the Isle of Man, that playing on PokerStars.eu is still playing on a site outside the European Union and 29% tax is owed. A District Court agreed with the Dutch Tax Office. That decision was then appealed to the Court of Appeals in 's-Hertogenbosch. That court reversed the ruling (link is in Dutch). The ruling, as best as I can determine, states that the place of establishment of the holder of internet poker (here, Malta) is decisive for the classification as domestic or foreign game of chance and, thus, taxation of play on PokerStars.eu violates the Treaty Establishing the European Union. The decision can be appealed to the Supreme Court of the Netherlands but for now, playing on PokerStars.eu is tax-free. Our Holiday Wish List for You
1/14/2019
It's that time of year again! So many pleasant things are happening: the holidays, lots of good food, parties to attend, gifts to give, and visits with friends and family. You might also be reminded that it's finally time to make plans to re-do the kitchen, update the baths, or finish the basement. Your family budget is probably another big thing that's on your mind this time of year. When it comes to updating their home, many homeowners think that getting good design puts remodeling out of reach. The truth is that a high-quality, well-designed project is a great investment that can actually save you money in the long run. What's on Our List?The items on our wish list for you – this holiday season AND all year long – are probably on your remodeling wish list, too. Your lifestyle requirements and budget are at the top. We take a look not only at the budget, but also at creative design possibilities that make the most of everything in the remodeled space: from traffic flow and natural light to storage space and style. Here are three ways we check our list to stretch your remodeling budget:1. Thoughtful Space PlanningIntelligent space planning carves the most from every square inch of the remodeled space. It rewards you with a home that is designed specifically to fit your lifestyle and needs. You don't want to spend money on a beautiful kitchen remodel only to find out that there is no place for a trash can or the dog's bowl. Space planning can also work magic in reclaiming “lost” space. The space between wall studs can become a niche that displays a favorite piece of artwork or provides an extra bit of storage in a small bathroom. A blank wall in the kitchen might be just enough room for a row of narrow cabinets, perfect for a beverage station or for stashing holiday china and serving pieces. 2. Design SavvyWith good design, any remodeling budget can buy major style. Here's an example: you may love the look of a certain kind of tile, but it's priced out of reach. With some clever design, however, you can enjoy that expensive look for less. It's possible to get an upscale look on a modest budget by combining handsome, budget-friendly tiles with sparing use of high-end accent tiles. 3. Products and PrioritiesBecause we know what products are available and how they work in real-world homes, we can help you spend your remodeling dollars most efficiently. We know what is fabulous and what is a flop! We can also help you get those special, extra items you crave. For example, if it's a priority to have a commercial-style range, we can show you how to include it and still stay within budget by scaling down on your cabinet choice without sacrificing your new kitchen's high-quality look and feel. Remember, it's the choice of appliances, fixtures, and finishes that can eat up the budget quickly. We can guide you in making selections that don't cost more, but it will help assure that you end up with the features, functionality, and quality you need, and creativity you want. It won't be long before the holiday gift list is replaced by your list of New Year's Resolutions to clean up and fix up your home. So, when January arrives and you find yourself pondering how to update your home before the next holiday season rolls around, call us and check out our wish list for helping you get the most from your remodeling investment! The post Our Holiday Wish List for You appeared first on Merrill Contracting & Remodeling, Inc.. Do Gutters Increase Home Value? Here's How Top Appraisers Assess the Water Shields of the House
1/13/2019
Gutters are the unsung heroes of real estate. They don't earn compliments like a property's gorgeous landscaping or the rustic tile selection of your master shower will. But without them, a home's structural integrity is at risk. Every day 14,000 homeowners face water emergencies while 37% have claimed losses due to water issues. Meanwhile, homeowners insurance companies pay out $2.5 billion in water damage losses every year. Gutters serve the critical role of pushing water where it needs to be: away from the house to avoid foundation erosion and roof leaks. “When I go out to appraise a property for a lender, they will almost never lend on a property that doesn't have gutters and downspouts that are functional,” said Jerin Harper, a home appraiser in Oregon with a decade of experience.
So do gutters increase home value? Not exactly, because they're like the tires of a car: buyers expect a property to have them in good working condition, or they'll pay less for it. We'll help you get up to speed on homeownership and gutters with insights from top appraisers around the country who explain:
Gutters as guardians of the house: Protecting against ice damming and foundation erosionImagine you're sitting in your living room on a chilly winter day watching television, when suddenly you feel a drop of water on your head. And then another, and another. You look up to find a wet patch spreading out on your ceiling just above you. Or, picture this: It's been a stormy few days with lots of rain. You go outside to clean up after the storm and to your horror, find that some of your foundation has washed away-but only in one spot that should have been difficult for the water to reach. The culprit in both situations? In most cases, bad gutters. Properly constructed and clean gutters are essential to preventing water damage to your home. The first scenario likely due to an issue called ice damming on the roof, where the water melting from a warmer part of your roof can't escape. This typically happens when gutters haven't been cleaned out properly, the water freezes, and then the ice accumulates under your shingles, melting and damaging the attic or ceiling in your home. The second scenario could be thanks to a broken gutter or a missing downspout-the water is dumping down onto your foundation instead of getting pushed away from the house. “You need to have gutters because you're going to start affecting your foundation significantly if you don't direct water away appropriately,” said Brett Young, a top-selling agent in Indianapolis. “It's not an option out here, honestly. If you're buying a house that doesn't have gutters on it, it's probably because it's a bank sale home and it's all beat up.” Granted, some locations don't need gutters as much as others-like Arizona, for example, where Young used to live. Some homes out there didn't have gutters and it wasn't a big deal, essentially because it's the desert and there's just not that much rain. But even in that situation, it's better to have them rather than not, just in case a storm comes through that is strong enough to damage your home. No gutters (or gutters in poor condition) will detract value from your houseNot only will a lack of gutters or ones with issues hurt your home and affect the sale, it could also actively lower your home's value. Whether you don't have any gutters or the ones you have are dirty, broken or improperly attached, you're compromising the longevity of the home by leaving it open to other problems. And those problems will have an effect on the appraisal when you're trying to sell. Harper notes gutters in poor condition could detract between $500 and $1,000 from the value of an average-sized house with a straightforward installation by a professional. “Gutters are part of the real estate, but there's not a specific adjustment line for gutters,” said Michael Keough, a 30-year residential home appraiser in New Jersey. “If the lack of gutters is ruining something, you'll detract from that item.” In some cases, the missing or damaged gutters can even end a sale before it begins. Good gutters will attract buyers but don't necessarily add valueAll that being said, gutters themselves typically won't increase the value of your home. They're standard, especially in areas with a lot of rain, and having them isn't anything special. “People don't just normally install gutters for the aesthetics of the gutters,” said Edmond (Buddy) Eslava, a nationally renowned appraiser with the Appraisal Consultant Group in the Mobile, Alabama. “If you needed them and didn't have them, it would detract value. But having them won't add value.” You can, though, add overall perceived value to your home based on the gutters themselves. Our experts shared some tips on what to do to make your gutters work for your home sale. Make sure your gutters are installed properly.There are two important pieces to this equation. Proper gutter installation means making sure the water is being diverted far away enough from the house so no damage is sustained around the foundation or on the siding. But you also have to make sure they're level-meaning no water is left to pool up in them with nowhere to drain. If that happens, they can start to draw an accumulation of mosquitos and other nasty bugs or cause ice damming. Match your gutters to your home.Just like any other part of your property, including outbuildings, shutters, garages, and even gazebos, you'll want to make sure the color and size of your gutters are appropriate for your home. For the color, typically the gutters will be the same color as the outdoor trim. As far as sizing, Young notes that the standard size used to be four inches, but now it's up to six inches-so get the larger ones. Eslava agrees, noting that eight-inch gutters are available too, and you should opt for those ones instead of the six-inch. But, if your house is a bit smaller and the large gutters would look out of place, then stay with a smaller size. It's also critical to have enough downspouts. The general rule is one downspout for every 35 or so feet of gutter. Stick with the standard gutter materials.Seams are out. If you want gutters that will bring value to your home, skip them and go for a seamless option. It looks tidier and more professional. Typically, gutters are metal or aluminum; the actual material doesn't matter much as long as the gutters are sturdy, functional, and match your house. Each material does have pluses and minuses, though. Aluminum: Metal, like copper or steel: Vinyl or plastic: Get gutter guards: They'll stop leaves and sticks from getting in, and will keep squirrels and their seeds out-so you don't have to worry about looking up one day to see a patch of sunflowers sprouting from the edge of your roof. As a plus, Young says having gutter guards could add value to a home appraisal. Skip the rain collection system: Se necesita un capataz de paisaje y construcción. Hasta $1.000 de bonificación de firma.
Ubicación: Western Howard County
Como resultado del crecimiento continuado, el paisajismo del Rhine, construcción, & pools tiene múltiples oportunidades de trabajo para los líderes de la tripulación de paisaje y onstruction y miembros de la tripulación. Beneficios: compensación competitiva *-vacaciones pagadas *-vacaciones/licencia por enfermedad Requisitos del líder de la tripulación: * conocimiento sobre el uso de todo tipo de equipos de paisajismo. * poseer licencia de conducir válida de Maryland. * Excelentes habilidades de comunicación, bilingües (a-Plus), sin embargo, no es necesario. * Habilidades organizativas fuertes. * Actitud positiva. * Solucionador de problemas. * Capacidad para motivar al personal de campo. Requisitos para miembros de la tripulación: * hambre para aprender nuevas tareas. * Capacidad de levantar 50lbs. * paisaje y la experiencia de construcción de una gran ventaja. Responsabilidades laborales para el líder de la tripulación: * administrar un equipo de mantenimiento o construcción de 3-4 empleados. * Monitorear y hacer cumplir las políticas de seguridad de la empresa relacionadas con las prácticas de mantenimiento. * Conduzca un pequeño camión de descarga. * Opere una minicargadora o cortadora de césped. * Tener la experiencia y habilidades adecuadas para mostrar a aquellos que están bajo su forma correcta de construir y mantener sitios de trabajo. Operaciones de remoción de nieve compensación basada en la experiencia.
Comunícate con Alvaro por correo electrónico, teléfono celular: teléfono celular-(443) 398-1495 The post Se necesita un capataz de paisaje y construcción. appeared first on Rhine Landscaping. Hi everyone! Happy New Year! We closed the shop for the week between Christmas until just after the new year. I have to tell you, it was pretty amazing. I ate a ton of food. My family and I put together a brand new puzzle, only to discover it was missing one piece at the end (insert mad face here.), and just hung around. I did sneak out one day to the closed shop, to nurture my creative side, and work on a new pine forest acrylic painting. Even though I love design, sculpture,ceramics, and just plain making stuff, paint has always played a part in all of those. It's probably why when I got back into creating, I was painting furniture, and murals. In the very beginning, I was making the most horrible looking mason jars, picture frames, and a few stuffed, felted snowmen ever. Don't believe me? Here is a picture from one of my first craft shows : Well, you gotta start somewhere, right? So, if you are reading this now, and you want to dive into creating something, but are worried its going to be bad… That's ok. Just start making things. The more you make, the better you get. Remember: we all start at the beginning. I really love putting paint to canvas, and working in acrylics and gouache. One of my main goals for this year is to dive back into canvas work, and start offering my paintings for sale again in the shop.I decided to paint my pine forest acrylic painting over a simple picture I did for my holiday housewalk over my faux mantel. It was such a big canvas, I thought it was better to reuse it, rather than buy a new one. I started by adding a layer of white acrylic paint over the top of the old painting. The hardest part is waiting for it to dry, so I can add more paint! After I did a cover coat on the old painting, I did a quick layout painting over the top in my colors. I wanted to get my valley, and my tree positioning correct. I know there is a whole rule of thirds, but as someone who was never formally trained in art, I just kind of go with what is pleasing to the eye for me. I I decided I wanted to use shades of black, green, blues and grays for my canvas to give it a wintery feel. I used DecoArt Premium Acrylic Art paints for my canvas, but this is not a sponsored post. After I did my initial layout, I added my pine trees using under-painting. It's a technique I use a lot. I like how it gives me a good, dark base to lay my lighter colors over. I feel like it enriches the colors painted over the top. This works well in acrylics, but not so much in other mediums like watercolor, or gouache. I don't work in oil paint, so I am not sure if it's used in that kind of painting at all. Maybe some of you more versed in oils would know? I added snowy branches by using a round brush, touching the tip fill of white paint, and adding gentle pressure downwards. After the snow, I added some simple shading to the bottom of the trees. I have a tutorial in this post on how to paint a winter scene, which includes a basic pine tree. You can also see how to paint a birch tree here, and an agate pattern here. Once it was dry, I added it to my winter mantel decor. I kept my deer up, and my felt garland from Anthropologie, and added a few birch logs and candles. The snowy canvas looks nice above our faux fireplace. It gave me such joy to take the time to really create! I hope to have a pillow or two of it available in the shop soon, I just need to photograph it with my big girl camera, so I get a good resolution for prints! The post New Year New Pine Forest Acrylic Painting appeared first on Jennifer Rizzo. It is a cold, hard truth that budgeting for commercial property taxes can be difficult. The stakes are high. If you get it wrong, your annual property tax bill can often be a budget-breaker. To create a meaningful budget that truly helps you manage your cash flow, owners need to know and understand the realities of property tax. • GAAP won't work - GAAP requires amortized historical cost while property tax requires fair market value. • Unpredictable - Process controlled by local taxing authorities and tax payers have the burden of proof. • Local resources - State law is executed at the local level with available resources. Before you need to grab a lifeboat, learn more in our infographic below. SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. - Saratoga County is a microcosm of New York's diverse $5 billion agriculture industry, which ranks nationally as a leader for goods such as yogurt, cheese and sour cream (first); apples and maple syrup (second); and milk production (third). Many more opportunities such as farm-to-school initiatives, urban gardening and enhanced marketing of products ranging from hemp to concord grapes are also on the horizon in 2019. The state's 35,000 farms encompass more than seven million acres and are responsible for nearly 200,000 jobs. “There are a lot of positive trends,” state Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball said. “We need to exploit these opportunities.” But there are challenges as well, such as bringing state leaders, who make crucial budget decisions, up to speed on high-priority issues confronting farmers today. Democrats now control the upper house of the Legislature so Sen. Jen Metzger, of Ulster County, has replaced Sen. Patty Ritchie, of St. Lawrence County, as chair of that body's agriculture committee. In the Assembly, Donna Lupardo of Broome County, succeeds fellow Democrat Bill Magee, of Oneida County, as committee chair. READ THE STORY: https://www.saratogian.com/news/local-news/opportunities-abound-for-new-york-agriculture/article_67f21f3c-1126-11e9-a03a-9b19258f0fbb.html Starting out 2019 with a story on interior design - renovations of two homes, one classic, one contemporary, and both in Ft. Worth. An eagle-eyed reader sent me a link to a house for sale in Fort Worth, Texas. Ft. Worth is the twin city of Dallas…think Minneapolis and St. Paul. Over the years, Ft. Worth has grown into its own and is no longer in the shadow of Dallas. It's a cowtown,
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