What Can Landscaping Do For You??

When most people think of the word “Landscape” what comes to mind is a few flowers, bushes and maybe trees-and you would be right. However, landscaping can be so much more, and it can do more than just make your home look pretty… Are you interested? Keep reading!!

Landscaping Has Huge Economic Benefits!

Studies have shown having a home that is well landscaped can increase the overall value of the property by as much as 14%!! –Now that doesn’t mean that you actually have to spend that kind of cash to see that type of investment. It was determined that if you want to see a return on your investment (particularly if you are trying to sell your home) that taking approximately 5% of your home’s value and investing in low maintenance but good landscape would increase the overall value of your home.

As if increasing the value of your home wasn’t enough, did you know that you could ACTUALLY lower your cooling and heating bill in the summer with properly placed plants? It was found that the proper selection of landscape greenery can reduce your electric bill up to 20%!!!

Landscaping Has Huge Health Benefits!

Studies have shown that people who have a well landscaped yard or space actually experience less stress in their life-now wouldn’t we all like a little less stress in our life? It was also found in a study amongst office workers, that the ones who had a view of outside trees and greenery experienced less headaches and physical complaints that the workers who had no outside view.

Resource: http://www.plant-care.com/landscaping-investment.html

Relaxing Where??

When you think of a resort or going on vacation, what comes to mind? Most likely images of a beautiful and pristine pool as well as a lush golf course come to mind. Well, what if you could have these beautiful features in your own home? Outdoor living is quickly becoming very popular in many areas of the county. Outdoor living is becoming so popular that it is even becoming a selling feature for real estate; outdoor living not only creates an enjoyable environment but also adds to the value of one’s home. Imagine being able to come home from an exhausting day at work and being able to play a few holes of golf to unwind before cranking up the BBQ? That is what outdoor living is all about-being able to relax, unwind and enjoy your backyard!

At Associated Group Remodeling, we understand how important it is for individuals to have a space that they not only enjoy but are proud of. Our team of designers can work with you and your allocated budget to create a design space that will be relaxing and enjoyable for years to come. It doesn’t matter if you desire a water feature, putting green, a BBQ or a beautiful outdoor gazebo-our team can build it with excellent craftsmanship.

At Associated Group Remodeling we pride ourselves on being able to provide our clients not only with the best materials, but also in our ability to produce superior work -all while meeting our clients financial needs. If you would like more information on how to turn your own backyard into your personal paradise, please do not hesitate to contact http://www.associatedremodeling.com/contact.htm.

Summer is Here and It's Time for Outdoor Living!!!

The warm sun, the smell of ribs on the grill, kids playing in the pool-this is the stuff that life is made of! And it is called outdoor living! Summers are a time where families can enjoy each other and enjoy the freedom of being out of school. But the question is, how many of us actually have backyards that are actually enjoyable to be in and can be used for entertainment? If you are now surveying your backyard and thinking that it is not exactly the type of relaxing place that you would bring your family and friends-then we can help!

Many people think that a backyard remodeling costs tens of thousands of dollars-and of course some remodeling can become pricy depending on what is being done. However, homeowners need not spend tens of thousands of dollars in order to have a backyard that is enjoyable. One of the beautiful things about remodeling is that sometimes all a backyard needs is a facelift-not a complete overhaul.

At Associated Group Remodel, we can help you with that! Walls can be refaced with new stone or stucco; pools can be given a facelift with new coping and plaster, flower beds can be revamped with new landscape design.  Don’t let this summer pass without being able to enjoy your backyard to the fullest! Give us a call today and we will meet with you and determine a way to work with both your space and your budget to give you a backyard that your family and friends can enjoy for years to come!

It’s all about Outdoor Living!!!

These days’ backyards are becoming expansions of homes. Living rooms open up to beautiful patio’s with seating and fireplaces and BBQ’s are becoming extensions of kitchens. Outdoor living is what it is all about in Phoenix! It’s all about being able to have friends over to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors comfortably! Can you imagine what it would be like to have your friends over with kids swimming in the pool, ribs on the grill and sitting comfortably beneath the fans of your gazebo?

At Associated Group Remodeling, our designers can create a beautiful outdoor gazebo where you can enjoy sports games or just kick back and have a cold one with friends. BBQ’s these days are becoming more and more like small kitchens-complete with refrigerators, stove tops and sinks!

Creating a well designed outdoor space is not only something that will bring many years of enjoyment for you, your family and friends, but it will also increase the value of your home if you ever intend to sell. Many people shy away from home remodels because they feel that it will be too expensive and that they simply can not afford it. At Associated Group Remodeling, our teams of experts are able to not only design new projects and space layouts, but they are also able to restore existing features-this will allow you to stretch your budget farther than you think! If you would like more information on creating an oasis in your backyard, please do not hesitate to give us a call!

Summer Time is Here!!

Summer is here! That means that its time to crack open the cooler, buy the kids some new swimsuits and have friends over for a BBQ! Throughout the winter, many people don’t pay attention to their backyard-simply because they are not spending time in it. People realize once summer hits, that their backyard leaves a lot to be desired. However, while many people may want to redesign their backyard, many never take the initial step because they are fearful that it will be too expensive. And yes, while adding a brand new pool, waterfall slide and golf course could be a bit on the pricey side, there are many things that can be done to give your backyard a facelift without breaking the bank!

At Associated Group Remodeling, out team of licensed and highly trained professionals are able to not only install but also repair features that may be dilapidated in your backyard. Our contractors are known for their work specifically with: landscape, sport courts, pool remodels, outdoor living (patios fire pits), BBQ’s, outdoor entertainment area’s, seating walls, deck resurfacing and more.

With everything that our contractors specialize in, there is no need to suffer through another summer with a backyard that could be so much more. At Associated Group Remodeling, our team of experts will work with you to determine the needs of the space and come up with a solution that meets your budget! For more information, please visit our website: http://www.associatedremodeling.com/residential_outdoor.htm

10 Minutes…

Think about this for a minute, if someone had complete access to your home for 10 minutes, how much could they steal? What could they take? These days robbers are getting much craftier, as opposed to purse snatching in the mall parking lot where there are security guards and cameras, robbers are breaking into homes. Homes for robbers provide a much more suitable and safe place to gather loot.

Because of increased security in public places, robbers have now been forced to explore other alternatives simply because they do not want to get caught-this makes sense to all of us! In order to prevent getting caught, the most reasonable solution is to rob a property that has no form of protection and provides a small risk of being caught. What does this house look like? It looks like a home with no video surveillance or security system. Research has shown that homes which utilize a video surveillance are far less likely to be broken into simply because the robbers don’t want to be caught and prosecuted. From a robber’s perspective, it is just as easy to select and break into a home that does not have a surveillance system in order to increase their chance of a getaway.

Security systems are not made with a “one size fits all” mentality. The property, doors, windows and landscape must all be taken into consideration. If you don’t have a home video surveillance system, don’t wait until it is too late! Be proactive so that you don’t have to be a victim!

Do You Have Curb Appeal??

When you think of the things that add value to your home, what comes to mind? If you are like most people you probably think of the granite in your kitchen, the tile in your bathroom, the wood floors, etc… While the interior of your home is a major selling point, the challenge is to get people inside. It all comes down to curb appeal… Now you might be saying to yourself, okay fine, curb appeal-I’ll just mow the grass and plant a few flowers. And you would be right-this would help. But the value of a home can drastically be increased by how it looks from the street-most times, this requires more than just mowing and the planting of a few flowers.

According to the Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association, research was conducted and complied. It was determined that:

• Landscaping can have a tremendous impact on property values. It was found that landscaping can boost the resale of a residential property by as much as 14%.
• It was also found that residential properties that were properly landscaped sold on average six weeks faster than houses that did not have “curb” appeal.
• It was found that a patio that was landscaped could increase the property value up to 12.4%

Many people ask themselves, “but how can I make sure to recoup my investment”. The Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association found that by taking 5% of the value of your home and spending it on landscape that required low maintenance, the value of your home could be increased by as much as 15%.

At Associate Group Remodeling, we pride ourselves on being able to work with our clients and their budget. If you are considering adding or remodeling a part of your landscape, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. We will do our best to work with you and your budget in order to make sure that your ideas are obtained without breaking the bank!

What You Need To Know About Crime Stats!

We are all aware that with these difficult economic times, many people are losing their jobs and livelihood. Unfortunately, this causes some people to turn to measures of providing for themselves and their family that they never felt they would succumb to. Because of this, it is crucial that you do everything that you can, and in your power to secure not only your home, but protect your family as well.

In order to put this into perspective, here are some statistics from the U.S Census Bureau in 2008 for Phoenix Arizona.

• In 2008, violent crime totaled 660 in the Phoenix area. When further broken down this was the result of approximately 10 murders, 30 rapes, 304 robberies and 315 aggravated assaults.

• In 2008, there were a total of 5,214 property related crimes. When further broken down this was the result of approximately 1,184 burglaries, 3,074 crimes related to larceny and theft and 960 cases of motor vehicle theft.

These statistics can be pretty intimidating-especially if one has not taken the proper precautions. At Associated Group Remodeling, we are dedicated to equipping people in order to protect their home and loved ones. We understand that finances can be an issue and that is most likely the reason why most people do not act on most things. However, we can work to upgrade existing security systems and our security technicians can review your property to ensure that you are getting the maximum security for your budget. Don’t hesitate when it comes to protecting what you value the most, give us a call and let us know how we can help you!

Security Systems for Your Home

Security systems are a home owner’s first defense and method of protection for thieves and robbers. Homes are most likely a person’s largest investment, when you think of what an average home is worth, isn’t it a little scary to not have it protected with a security system? Would you leave a Ferrari unlocked and parked on an open street where anyone could steal it? Of course not! But unfortunately this is what we do with our houses nearly everyday; we simply lock the front door and hope that that is enough to protect us.

Associated Group Remodeling is dedicated to helping people protect their property and family. Because of this, Associated Group Remodeling has researched what are the most effective methods of home security systems and created a new division of Associated Group Remodeling that is strictly dedicated to ensuring the security of ones property and family.


Security cameras are an incredibly effective way to protect personal property. Camera’s can either be placed in discreet places or they can be placed in areas where they can be seen to serve as a deterrent. Studies have shown that properties that have video surveillance are less likely to be vandalized or broken into due to the fear of being caught and prosecuted.  


If you would like to speak with one of our security service technicians, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our security service technicians have been working in the Phoenix area for years and are incredibly experienced at being able to detect potentially problem areas for residential home owners.

Why Use Security Cameras?

When asked the general question of why use security cameras, we can all pretty much answer with a simple response of “in order to protect our family and property”. But how do security cameras protect our family and property? Can security cameras really do this? In this blog we will answer this question and discuss other ways that security cameras are beneficial.

·     Security cameras can be installed in virtually any space. Security cameras serve two primary purposes: 1.) Security Cameras serve as a deterrent. Security cameras are a deterrent to robbers and criminals because it is highly probable that their actions will be recorded on tape and that they will be caught and prosecuted for their crime. Because of this knowledge, thieves and robbers are much more likely to choose a target that does not utilize a security system. The other primary purpose with security cameras is to actually catch the criminal activity and allow the police an additional tool to catch the individual and help prevent the crime from happening again.

·     With large properties and estates, even if there is a security guard, it is physically impossible for the security guard to be able to cover and be aware of everything that is happening on the property. Because of this, security cameras are of extra benefit. They will allow for the monitoring of all activity without actually having to be present at every location on the property.

At Associated Group Remodeling, we believe that in order to protect your family from robbers and thieves it means setting yourself up with the best defense possible, with our research, we have found that security cameras fit this need. Protect your family and property, call us and speak with one of our highly qualified security technicians about adding security cameras to your property or estate!

Secure Your Complex or Estate

Theft and vandalism are perhaps the two scariest words for a business owner. The mere idea that someone can destroy the property or structure that you have worked for in the span of a few minutes is daunting. Because of this, Associated Group Remodeling is dedicated to helping home owners and businesses become more aware and better equipped in order to protect their property.

As with anything, there are multiple ways to go about it. At Associated Group Remodeling, we have researched the best and most effective way/s to protect one’s investment. In our research, we have found that Automated Entry and Exit Security Systems, Call Boxes/Card Access Systems and Surveillance and Video Recording are not only the most effective, but the most cost efficient.

Automated Entry and Exit Security Systems are security cameras that can be set up to view traffic as it as both entering and leaving the property. These security cameras work well for large residential estates, apartment complexes and business offices. Call Boxes and Card Access Systems are most efficient when a property or office has main points of entry. This security system requires that the person either call to gain access, or use their pre-programmed keycard or remote to enter the premise. Another way to increase security is by surveillance and video recording. Surveillance and Video Recording works especially well for problem areas that may not be well lit or are obscured from view.

If you are thinking about increasing the security for your home, estate, apartment complex or business, please do not hesitate to give Associated Group Remodeling a call. Our security technicians will work with you to map out problems areas and eliminate them!

Are You Safe?

For most people, when thinking about our homes, family and children, their protection and safety is of number one concern. Because of this, we have decided in this blog to give you statistics from the Phoenix Police Department so that you can be the judge in order to determine if your family and property are safe.

The latest statistics that we have access to are from 2009. According to the Phoenix Police, in 2009 the population for Phoenix Arizona was 1,679,895. This number has grown from 1,504,995 in 2004. In 2009, the Phoenix Police Station reported 66,054 property crimes, 16,281 burglaries, 39,643 cases of theft, 9,693 reports of auto theft and 437 cases of arson.  All of these numbers are what have been reported, many crimes are committed that are never reported. While these numbers in contrast to the population size may not seem to be that significant, it only takes once to be one of these statistics.

Associated Group Remodeling is dedicated to helping both homeowners and business owners protect their investment and their personal property. Associated Group Remodeling offers a wide array of security protection that can be tailored to meet the needs of both residential home owners as well as business owners. These products range from home security camera systems, key card entries to automated entry and exit systems for larger estates.

If you have ever thought about implementing security systems, take a look at the various methods of security that Associated Group Remodeling offers. Their security technicians can meet with you to create a security layout for your residence or commercial property; they even have the ability to upgrade outdated systems.

Source:

http://www.google.com/search?q=Crime+statistics+in+Phoenix+Az&rls=com.microsoft:en-us:IE-SearchBox&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&sourceid=ie7&rlz=1I7SKPB_en

Surveillance and Video Recording for Homeowners

While large commercial properties and businesses have recognized the benefits of surveillance and security video recording for many years, private home owners are now starting to realize the value as well. Now more than ever, it is important to do everything that you can to not only protect yourself and your family, but your property as well. Home surveillance and video recording make this not only possible, but it is also financially feasible.

It was found by the U.S Bureau of Justice that over 75% of all crimes that are committed are related to property crime-for home owners and essentially anyone who owns property this statistic is incredibly scary. The comforting factor is that with surveillance and video recording, you can now be prepared and protect your property ahead of time.

Studies have shown that homes and facilities that utilize surveillance and video recording are less likely to be vandalized or broken into. This is because surveillance recording devices are visible; this therefore deters the thief from choosing YOUR property because their chances of being caught and prosecuted have greatly increased.

At Associated Group Remodeling our security technicians know that each home or business brings with it a unique set of challenges and needs. Our security experts can work with you to examine your property to determine its vulnerable points and therefore strengthen them. It doesn’t matter if you have concern for one specific area of your property and require the use of one security camera or require plans for multiple security cameras.

Our security technicians at Associated Group Remodeling have years of experience in the Phoenix area. At Associated Group Remodeling we do our best to not only work within your budget, but to also deliver the highest quality products available on the market. If you have ever considered adding security cameras to your home, do not hesitate to call us, we look forward to hearing from you!

Remote Control Access Security Systems-is it right for you?

If you have a security gate, then a Remote Controlled Access Security System might be just the thing for you! Remote Controlled Access Security Systems activate and work hand in hand with Access Control Security Systems. Most people are familiar with keycard swipe entries, while these are very beneficial, these can also be a bit frustrating. Keycard entries require the person in the vehicle to not only stop (which for some people in a hurry can be a nuisance) but to also roll down their window, lean over, and swipe their keycard to gain access.

While this may not seem to be a big deal, believe it or not the climate plays a roll in the ease of keycard use. Let’s face it, Phoenix can get a tad on the hot side, and if rolling down a window and being exposed to the weather can be at all avoided-then go for it! With a Remote Control Access Security System, the driver does not have to stop at the entry to swipe a card nor do they have to roll down their window. Overall Remote Control Access Security Systems are much more functional! Remote Control Access Security Systems work by simply pushing the button on the Remote Control as the driver approaches the gate, the gate will then be activated and opened to allow access.

Another benefit of Remote Controlled Access Security Systems is that they increase the traffic flow for properties and estates that recognize large numbers of traffic. The Remote Controlled Access Security System will only let pre-approved people on your property. In contrast to keycard or coded entry systems, lines will not develop while other drivers wait their turn to enter their code, because of this Remote Control Access Security Systems increase flow of traffic.

If you are thinking about adding a Remote Controlled Access Security System to your Gated Security System, please do not hesitate to give us a call at Associated Group Remodeling. Our team of experts will meet with you and can discuss new security plans or ways of upgraded previously existing security features. For more information, please visit our website http://www.associatedremodeling.com/security-systems.htm.

Automated Security Entry/Exit Systems

A few weeks ago we proudly announced a new division of Associated Group Remodeling that would be focused on providing both home and business owners state of the art security systems. In this blog as well as in the next few weeks, we will be talking about specific types of security systems that can be used for both commercial and residential home owners.

At some point, chances are we have all come into contact with automated security entry and exit systems. Commercial properties as well as estates that recognize a large flow of traffic are starting to utilize and understand the importance of Automated Security Entry and Exit Systems.

One of the beautiful things about Automated Security Entry and Exit Systems is that you have complete control over who comes on your property at all times. Automated Security Entry and Exit Systems can be strategically placed at crucial points throughout the property or estate. These security systems only allow people with an activated key card or code the authority to access the premise. One of the convenient aspects of key cards is that they can be quickly activated and deactivated if lost or stolen; it is also very easy to replace key cards for tenants or employees.

Some of the benefits of Automated Security Entry and Exit Systems are:

-Automated Security Systems allow you to be able to monitor who is entering and exiting your property at all times

-Automated Security Systems allow you to more efficiently manage the flow of traffic throughout your property

-Automated Security Systems will increase your tenants’ peace of mind and overall level of residential security offered

-Automated Security Systems give you control as to who has access to your property, gated community or business 

If you are thinking about adding an Automated Security System to your community, estate or business, the security professionals at Associated Group Remodeling will be more than happy to meet with you and assess your security needs. For more information, please visit: http://www.associatedremodeling.com.

Is Your Investment Protected??

With the economy as difficult as it is, people are getting more and more desperate and will do anything to provide for their family. Unfortunately this has led to an increase of robberies which has also lead to a loss of income for those businesses who have been a victim. If you think that your chances of being robbed are incredibly slim, then check out these statistics:

• In 2009, there were approximately 408,217 robberies
• It was estimated that $508 million dollars in losses were attributed to the robberies that occurred in 2009

Because all studies point to the fact that crime is on the rise, Associated Group Remodeling has decided to do their part to address crime and to help business owners protect their investment and livelihood. The increase of crime is important for commercial business owners to be aware of. However, if one is aware of a potential problem, steps can be taken to protect ones investment. Studies have shown that businesses that have security cameras are far less likely to be broken into than businesses that do not. In addition, the quality of cameras that Associated Group Remodeling provides and installs is second to none and is state of the art. So that if by chance your building is vandalized, you can be assured that through the high-tech monitoring system, the chances of your thief being caught is incredibly high.

If you are a commercial business owner and would like more information on protecting your property and business, you can contact Associated Group Remodeling at (602) 482-9097. Don’t let a thief take something that belongs to you!

Crime… It happens on your block and in your home… Are you prepared?

With the downfall of the economy, it is hardly a surprise to anyone that there has been an increase and a correlation with home robberies and break-ins. People who once had work and were able to provide for themselves have now resulted to other means of providing for their family. As sad as this is, it still does not excuse their behavior. The question is, what are you doing to protect your family and your loved ones from this increase of violent behavior? Now you may be saying, but I live in a really nice area… This could never happen… Well, to that I would say that it only takes once. Because of this growing need, Associated Group Remodeling has expanded and thus created a sister company, “How to Catch a Thief”.

According to the FBI, home invasions occur every 14 seconds in the United States. Experts who have looked at this increase in theft have determined that homes that do not have a professional security system are more likely to be robbed than those who do not. In 2003 it was found that there were over 14 million cases of theft of property and over 83% of these were related to residential and business break-ins. The US Bureau of Justice Statistics found that around 75% of all crimes committed in the United States were related to property crime. Essentially, most of the crime that occurred could have been caught on a security system so that justice could have been delivered.

Because of this, home security systems are not something that one should just consider and then pass over lightly. Many people think that the odds are in their favor that it simply won’t happen to them. Additionally many people think that security systems are too expensive to install in their homes. At “How to Catch a Thief” they offer a wide variety of products that are designed to meet both your needs and budget. Give “How to Catch a Thief” a call so you can sleep well at night knowing that both your family and property is well protected! Call them at: (602) 482-9097

A New Division of Associated Group Remodeling!

At Associated Group Remodeling, we are proud to announce the start of “How to Catch a Thief”. How to Catch a Thief is a custom surveillance and security system company that is dedicated to helping victims of crime catch the perpetrator. How to Catch a Thief will specialize in both residential and commercial properties and offers both permanent surveillance installation as well as short term use of surveillance equipment.

At How to Catch a Thief, all of our security systems are designed to fit the needs of our consumers. It doesn’t matter if you own a large commercial property and need surveillance cameras installed around the perimeter, or if you have an office building and need to install cameras within your office, or if you are a homeowner dealing with people continually stealing or vandalizing your property. At How to Catch a Thief, we will tailor all of our systems to meet your needs.

At How to Catch a Thief, we offer optical and area specific crime and nuisance detection solutions. What sets How to Catch a Thief apart from other crime surveillance companies, is that there is no equipment to buy and there is a one time low cost fee per solution. That means that you don’t have to go through the hassle or expense of buying expensive equipment and trying to install it appropriately. At How to Catch a Thief, you are guaranteed results that are professional, private and discreet. In future blogs we will discuss specific uses for both residential and commercial properties. For more information on “How to Catch a Thief” please contact us at (602) 482-9097.

The Beauty of Colored Concrete…

What is Colored Concrete?

Perhaps one of the most fantastic things about concrete is that it is completely moldable and can be adapted to suit any space, style and design. Traditionally, the color grey is what comes to mind when people think of colored concrete-however the days of grey are long gone. Now, there are so many hues and colors that can be used to either make your concrete blend in with existing structures or stonework. Additionally, color can be used to enhance it and make a bold statement.

How Does One Maintain Colored Concrete?

If the concrete is properly maintained, it will serve as a source of beauty for years and years to come. Maintenance is relatively simple, but can vary based upon the type of color used and the type of weather conditions. Sealing concrete (as discussed in our previous blog) will prolong the life and increase the durability of your concrete.

Tips for Getting the Best Results with Colored Concrete…

When considering colors and hues for colored concrete it is best to think in terms of the finished look and feel that you are trying to achieve in the space. First, narrow it down to if you want something more subdued and earthy or if you are looking for something more vibrant. In addition to the coloring, consider the type of finish that would best reflect the overall feeling of the space that you are trying to achieve, it can be anything from marbling to antiquing effects to something that is more uniform.

Cost of Colored Concrete…

If you are looking for a cost effective way to brighten up a space or to add a punch of color, then colored concrete just might be right for you. While colored concrete does cost more than traditional concrete, it is very affordable and very aesthetically pleasing. If you are considering colored concrete, the contractors at Associated Group Remodeling have a lot of experience and would be happy to answer any of your questions!

More Resources:

http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete-color/

http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete-color/maintaining-colored-concrete.html

http://www.concretenetwork.com/clean-seal-concrete/