I think what you're referring to *is* actually called tape binding at some of the office supply stores (OfficeMax and Office Depot...).
You're right -- most office supply stores have a tape binding system, with multiple colors of tape to bind the products. I've used them with clear covers, but have also run a customized cover on cardstock and brought that in to be bound as the first page. They're pretty sturdy for up to a 100+ pages, although certainly not as durable as coil binding or a binder would be. I've never had them re-bind one.
The only issue with tape binding is that you have to go to the office supply store to have it done (I'm not aware of any home tape binding systems -- although there are home coil-bound systems you can purchase). Unless you live nearby to one, or go there often, it can be inconvenient.
Also, from a confidentiality standpoint, it can be an issue to have it bound by a third-party. I'm a bit more open in my feelings about this, so I don't think it's a problem to have it bound at an office supply store. (I've read of people who don't use their inventory program on a hard drive that's connected to the Internet, or who destroy all their copies of the records as soon as they deliver the report, or who "clean-wipe" their data cards on their cameras to ensure the data can never be recovered, etc.) If you *are* one of the people who feels this way about protecting client information, you won't want to consider tape (or "cover") binding. Instead, use binders or a personal-sized coil or comb binding system.
A cover bind: I'm having trouble describing it. It has a clear cover (usually) and then a tape binding to match the cololr of the back cover. It looks like a magazine, sort of. It might be worth stopping in if you're not too far from an office supply store with copying and binding service.
I still think it looks better than a 3-ring binder. I think what I am going to do with updates is have it rebound. It's so cheap.
Hey Kelly!! Congrads!! I like the idea of using the binder cover! I think they can add pockets! I put other businesses in the area info in my finished product!
However what about having to do updates or corrections! Would you have to redo it? I think it only cost $2 down here with out any special stuff.
I will have to look into that again!!
I would have to agree with kelly on the light switch.
Some wall things we just do a group picture of. We do all blinds, window treatments,area rugs, we do group shots of flower pots, kitchen stuff, closets, bathrooms(usaully a bunch of accessories) this way the customers knows what he had by looking at the picure! I also take the group photos only and add them individually to the disk so the client can see a bigger photo. The one on the report is kind of small. that way they can see it better. Talk to you soon! Kim
Also, the county assessor site can be very helpful.
Check out my county's site: http://www.dcassessor.org/disclaimer.html
Click "I agree"
Under Parcel ID, enter: R2114032914 and then click" Begin Parcel Search"
It will pull up the record for Roger Morrissey, the county assessor.
Click on the parcel number at the left and it will pull up his home's record.
Douglas County, NE lists: ** Land value ** Improvement value ** Sales data (how much bought for, and when) ** Year built (and remodeled, if applicable) ** Photo and general floor plan of home, including style ("Ranch") ** Also lists square footage, including # of rooms, ## of baths and bedrooms ** Lists "add ons" -- such as sprinkler system and chain link fence in Mr. Morrissey's case.
This information can be used to provide a general cost estimate and plan the amount of time requred for the inventory (although you should ALWAYS verify the information yourself, especially square footage, because some counties only count "above ground" square footage ... and they don't always have the correct information. (For example, my parents have 1-3/4 bathrooms in their house, and the county only lists 1.)
Don't let the video camera (or a tape recorder) be a crutch that you rely on too much. The pen is still mightier than the sword! *smile*
I'll never forget the time (back in the pre-digital camera days) that I took a whole roll of "film" and then went to load in the second roll and discovered that there was no film in it to begin with! Aughh! Talk about embarrassing -- and time wasting!
Even if you videograph everything, you'll still need handwritten records to detail key items (but the videotape can be used for things like those light covers -- which, unless they're solid gold, probably don't need to be individually documented).
But don't rely on a tape recorder too much either -- one, it's possible to spend twice the time transcribing it that it took to record it in the first place and second... they're not infallible either (I've had mine jam before, batteries die halfway through without me noticing it, and run out of tape and not "click off" to warn me ....)
Thank you to all the veterans who have been contributing and encouraging the newbies like me. I'm more enthusiastic than ever.
I completed two free home inventories. I learned a lot. The freebie clients were both super impressed and very surprised at the results. I can't wait to show the inventories (identification blacked out) to my insurance agents. I think I will have some paying jobs shortly. Although summer may hamper my progress since people are busy outside.
I learned how to measure cabinets. I learned that in Massachusetts the home's square footage is listed on the tax bill, so I can ask for that to confirm the size. Do I photograph light switch plates if they are special? I'm still struggling with the "level of detail" issue. And I have to learn how to estimate room sizes so I can estimate area rug sizes, etc.
I bought a tripod. My first equipment investment. I don't really have much money yet to put into the business. I think what I want and need most is Fred's software. I'm using the III package b/c it's free. But it's very limited.
I can't believe how much writing is involved. I haven't used a pen so much since college. I can't wait to get a video camera. That will cut down on the amount of writing.
I tried the "cover bind" at Staples. I love it. It looks great, it's really affordable and there's no hole punching! They even have custom covers for single copies! Even if you have to rebind a revision, it's still cheaper than a binder and better looking I think.
That's all for now. Hope all is well with everyone. Happy Fourth if I don't talk to you before.
