What is a Home Warranty and Why is it so Valuable?
A Home Warranty is a service agreement that offers valuable protection on the properties' mechanical systems and appliances, such as; the heating system, water heater, plumbing, electrical, garage door opener, garbage disposal, central air conditioning or evaporative cooler, door bell, and more. It doesn't matter whether the home, condominium, town house, manufactured home, or mobile home is one year or a hundred years old, as long as the covered items are in good working order at the start of the home warranty service contract.
Home or Appliance Warranties or Extended Warranty Polices - Do not cover any pre-existing conditions such as plumbing, heating, air conditioning, ventilation or electrical code violations. They do not cover items that are in need of repair prior to the issuance of the home warranty service agreement, and they do not cover structural conditions.
Home Warranties are an added benefit and a cost-effective way to protect your homes' mechanical systems, appliances and most of all, your pocket book! Home warranties have been used by; Homeowners, Property Sellers, Home Buyers, Real Estate Investors, Realtors, and Real Estate Services such as Relocation, Title, Inspection, Appraisal, and Mortgage Lending Companies for years.
With cost going up and up on repair bills, plus the large expense involved when replacement becomes nesccesary. A home warranty service agreement is a good idea to have on your property regardless of their systems and appliances age.
From the seller's position, a home warranty offers protection during the listing period as well as peace-of-mind for potential buyers. Studies have shown that homes that include a home warranty sell faster and at a potentially higher price than those that don't. A home warranty will increase your property's appraisal value by $1000 to $3000 dollars.
http://www.articles-hub.com/index.php?article=94941&highlite=home,Moving,Relocating,articles
Sunday, February 4, 2007
Buying a Home versus Renting a Home in Tampa Bay Florida
Renting a home is not uncommon as it is clear that some people cannot afford to buy their own home. The natural assumption is that it works out cheaper to buy a home over a long period of time. However, where many of us cannot afford the down payment on a new purchase of property, so renting a property on a yearly lease may be the way to go while saving for your first house.
Finding a home for rent in the Florida, Tampa Bay area depends on the availability of seasonal as well as year round property. What you need to consider are all the costs involved with renting a home. The cost of renting a home is normally determined by the value of the property and location. Unlike buying, most landlords require you to make a 3 month rent payment before moving in. This usually encompasses the down payment, the first months rent, and second months rent.
The problem with renting a home is two-fold: you will never get back what you put into your rental property (equity and ownership), and secondly you will have restrictions imposed on you that you would not have while owning your own house. However, as a short term solution, renting a home in a new area can be ideal while you save money and slowly shop for your dream home. I often recommend this to people who are relocating from the north and are not sure of where they want to buy or how big of a house they want to purchase.
The cost of buying a home is not cheap, we all know and respect that. Depending on the location that you choose within the Tampa Bay area, the costs can vary. Buying a home entails many costs especially if you do not have the immediate finances. But the rewards of home ownership make it all worthwhile. Some of the costs to consider are the initial down payment, closing costs, property inspections, taxes and of course homeowners insurance. In a renting situation, the landlord usually covers the costs of maintaining the apartment (fixtures, property landscape, etc). But of course, the rent that you pay will include these things, and rent in this area is getting more and more expensive all the time.
Buying a home opens up the option of choice in terms of architectural style and place of living. While the opposite applies for renting. Often you might be obligated to choose the place to rent that is cheaper and often not the best looking. That simply means renting can pigeon-hole you into living in an area or structure that although may be available and within your price range, it may not appeal to your sense of style.
Owning your own home is about benefiting from long term personal and financial satisfaction. Your own home means security and also having the option of creating the dream home the way you have always wanted it. Home ownership is also about experiencing the freedom of having your own serious investment. The point of emphasis therefore lies in being equipped with the right kind of service that will help you choose which home is right for you. Talking to people who can help you know which option of owning are available to you is without a doubt the right step to take.
In the Tampa Bay Florida Real Estate area there is an abundance of houses and condos to choose from. While property prices during the late ’05 season seemed to rise quite quickly, it's not too late to buy your dream home. Normally the best thing to do is to talk to a Tampa Bay, Florida real estate agent who can give you a better and realistic property pricing estimate.
Naturally what you have to remember is that your own needs are important. The type of lifestyle you envision can help you determine whether renting or buying is the feasible option.
http://www.articles-hub.com/index.php?article=43603&highlite=home,Moving,Relocating,articles
Finding a home for rent in the Florida, Tampa Bay area depends on the availability of seasonal as well as year round property. What you need to consider are all the costs involved with renting a home. The cost of renting a home is normally determined by the value of the property and location. Unlike buying, most landlords require you to make a 3 month rent payment before moving in. This usually encompasses the down payment, the first months rent, and second months rent.
The problem with renting a home is two-fold: you will never get back what you put into your rental property (equity and ownership), and secondly you will have restrictions imposed on you that you would not have while owning your own house. However, as a short term solution, renting a home in a new area can be ideal while you save money and slowly shop for your dream home. I often recommend this to people who are relocating from the north and are not sure of where they want to buy or how big of a house they want to purchase.
The cost of buying a home is not cheap, we all know and respect that. Depending on the location that you choose within the Tampa Bay area, the costs can vary. Buying a home entails many costs especially if you do not have the immediate finances. But the rewards of home ownership make it all worthwhile. Some of the costs to consider are the initial down payment, closing costs, property inspections, taxes and of course homeowners insurance. In a renting situation, the landlord usually covers the costs of maintaining the apartment (fixtures, property landscape, etc). But of course, the rent that you pay will include these things, and rent in this area is getting more and more expensive all the time.
Buying a home opens up the option of choice in terms of architectural style and place of living. While the opposite applies for renting. Often you might be obligated to choose the place to rent that is cheaper and often not the best looking. That simply means renting can pigeon-hole you into living in an area or structure that although may be available and within your price range, it may not appeal to your sense of style.
Owning your own home is about benefiting from long term personal and financial satisfaction. Your own home means security and also having the option of creating the dream home the way you have always wanted it. Home ownership is also about experiencing the freedom of having your own serious investment. The point of emphasis therefore lies in being equipped with the right kind of service that will help you choose which home is right for you. Talking to people who can help you know which option of owning are available to you is without a doubt the right step to take.
In the Tampa Bay Florida Real Estate area there is an abundance of houses and condos to choose from. While property prices during the late ’05 season seemed to rise quite quickly, it's not too late to buy your dream home. Normally the best thing to do is to talk to a Tampa Bay, Florida real estate agent who can give you a better and realistic property pricing estimate.
Naturally what you have to remember is that your own needs are important. The type of lifestyle you envision can help you determine whether renting or buying is the feasible option.
http://www.articles-hub.com/index.php?article=43603&highlite=home,Moving,Relocating,articles
Where Do I Move
For some the question of "Where do I move?" may seem a little bizarre, for others it may incur fear, stress, and restlessness of the unknown. It is assumed that every five years 17% of the population will move house. To some of those the likelihood of moving to a new city or perhaps country may be a bigger reality than expected. Your spouse may be offered that once in a lifetime career development opportunity or your elderly parents may need the comfort of family closer to home.
It doesn't matter what your reason, the shear reality for some of us is we will make a move that is potentially out of our comfort zone. We live our life in an environment we have either grown up in or become accustomed to, having friends, family, shops & schools to name a few of the creature comforts. Regardless of the reasoning we do not realise what we have until we decide to relocate.
More importantly what do we consider when we are looking for a new home or area in which to live? If you do not have access to some good local knowledge at your new destination here are some ideas to help you make a more informed decision, certainly your criteria could be unlimited, so let's highlight some key considerations for now rather than after moving.
A common question I enjoy the banter of is "Which side of town do I live, Northside, Southside etc?" The answer is obvious if you live on the Southside guess what the answer will be.
Here are some things to consider:
Future urban development. Can you expect a new industrial or commercial park development as your next door neighbour, or is the local council, county or municipality proactive in future growth of the area, and how they intend to cater for an increased population
Property Values growth or decline obviously in a fast growing area may be positioned favourably to local services, public transport, or ocean views for example. A decline may represent a saturation of new homes & not necessarily because a new highway is being built right through the middle.
http://www.articles-hub.com/index.php?article=107754&highlite=home,Moving,Relocating,articles
It doesn't matter what your reason, the shear reality for some of us is we will make a move that is potentially out of our comfort zone. We live our life in an environment we have either grown up in or become accustomed to, having friends, family, shops & schools to name a few of the creature comforts. Regardless of the reasoning we do not realise what we have until we decide to relocate.
More importantly what do we consider when we are looking for a new home or area in which to live? If you do not have access to some good local knowledge at your new destination here are some ideas to help you make a more informed decision, certainly your criteria could be unlimited, so let's highlight some key considerations for now rather than after moving.
A common question I enjoy the banter of is "Which side of town do I live, Northside, Southside etc?" The answer is obvious if you live on the Southside guess what the answer will be.
Here are some things to consider:
Future urban development. Can you expect a new industrial or commercial park development as your next door neighbour, or is the local council, county or municipality proactive in future growth of the area, and how they intend to cater for an increased population
Property Values growth or decline obviously in a fast growing area may be positioned favourably to local services, public transport, or ocean views for example. A decline may represent a saturation of new homes & not necessarily because a new highway is being built right through the middle.
http://www.articles-hub.com/index.php?article=107754&highlite=home,Moving,Relocating,articles
Living and Retiring Abroad How about Nova Scotia Dominica Panama or Cuba
Living and Retiring Abroad: How about Nova Scotia, Dominica, Panama or Cuba?
Many of us dream of relocating to another country, perhaps to enjoy warmer weather, perhaps to experience a slower-paced lifestyle, perhaps because of a job transfer, or maybe simply because we are intrigued by a certain element of adventure and curiosity.
While moving to another country may sound like an exciting proposition, it is a very serious decision with major ramificiations, and there are many factors to take into account in making this decision.
I had a chance to talk with Phillip Townsend, author of the e-Book, Passport to Canada: The Complete Guide to Living & Retiring in Nova Scotia, and special e-Reports of living and retiring in Panama, the Caribbean and Cuba.
1. Please tell us about yourself and your background.
As an American who had a teenage fascination with Asian culture, after high school, I got a part-time job, saved my money and purchased a one-way ticket to Taiwan, Republic of China. After arriving in the Far East, I taught English and eventually landed an internship with SIDA, a German-based global risk consulting firm. After working as an intern and completing an extensive training program, my work took me to 13 East Asian countries, where I assisted corporate and government clients with international research and other consulting projects.
After returning to the United States, I opened and ran the firm's U.S. office until the company went out of business several years later. Afterwards, my career shifted and I began writing freelance and consulting independently, Later, I was hired as stringer (correspondent) for Money magazine, America's leading personal finance monthly. After leaving, I wrote a biweekly international lifestyle Q&A column for the International Employment Gazette, which also appeared monthly in Industrial Tradesman magazine. I have assisted the governments of Sri Lanka and Ethiopia on promoting tourism and trade (and was considered for an official diplomatic post with the latter). My articles and other writings have appeared in publications as diverse as GQ, the San Francisco Chronicle and Expat World.
Currently, I spend most of my time writing and researching. I'm also a Country Contact for American Citizens Abroad, representing the Switzerland-based non-profit organization in Nova Scotia.
I have always been a so-called man of the world, and don't believe there is any single "best" country, but rather believe in reaping the unique benefits that each nation has to offer.
2. You are an expert on living and retiring in various regions, including Nova Scotia, the Caribbean, Panama and Cuba. Please tell us about how you became an expert on these topics.
In addition to my experience living abroad and traveling widely, over the years, I have dedicated my life to international living, conducting extensive research and advising hundreds of clients on every aspect of moving abroad and strategic planning (offshore personal and financial issues). I've assisted people from all walks of life with moves to over sixty countries and six continents.
3. Please tell us about living, retiring, travelling and investing in Nova Scotia. What makes Nova Scotia a great destination for expatriate or retirement living?
Nova Scotia is the type of place that can seduce you through its sheer natural beauty: The long stretches of picturesque coastline, a beatiful countryside, friendly people and a slower pace and reasonable prices make it one of the most livable places in Canada or anywhere in North America. The climate is another plus. In many places in Nova Scotia, winters can be much milder (with less snow) than in other places in Canada or the northern US. Also, Nova Scotia enjoys a low crime rate, with incidents of violent crime being remarkably low. Perhaps the most appealing benefit of living in Nova Scotia are the affordable real estate prices (some lots with ocean views can be had for as little as C$20,000).
4. Please inform us about living, travelling and investing in Dominica. What should one know about living and retiring to this beautiful island in the Caribbean?
With no direct flights from North America or Europe, Dominica is welcome retreat of peace and quiet in the Caribbean's sea of mass tourism. Roughly halfway between Martinique and Guadeloupe, the island is splendidly underdeveloped. A land of waterfalls, rivers (365 of them), hot springs, and lush rain forests, Dominica is the Caribbean’s most rugged isle. Instead of luxury resorts and long stretches of crowded white sand beaches, you'll find volcanic mountains, intimate beaches, little-explored reefs and small hotels (some of which are for sale for a steal). Unlike most of the Caribbean's islands, which cater to tourists and the high-end market, Dominica's prices are refreshingly down-to-earth. For example, you can find oceanfront lots for prices ranging from C42,000 to C58,000, and build a home for as little as C$28,000 to C$47,000.
5. Please give us a brief overview about living, travelling and investing in Panama. What makes this a desirable place and what do we need to know about it?
Panama's coast, both on the Caribbean and Pacific sides, is like Florida, but less crowded and with property prices about a tenth of the cost in many cases. Panama offers affordable real estate, a warm climate and great beaches. In order to attract expatriates, the Panamanian government has put together an impressive list of benefits in their pensionado program, including 20-year tax-free status and discounts on everything from public transportation to restaurants to doctor's visits. Best of all, anyone over 18 can qualify for these "retirement" benefits.
Though Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken and understood in major cities. Right now, the three best places to purchase real estate in Panama are Panama City, the capital which boasts First-world infrastructure and is home to virtually every large American brand-name chain; Boquette, a scenic and growing expatriate hideaway in Panama's mountainous region; and the Pearl Islands, a chain of over 90 islands and 130 islets in the Caribbean.
6. Please talk to us about living, travelling and investing in Cuba. What makes this unique island an interesting destination for foreigners thinking of living or retiring there? What do they need to know about Cuba before considering to move there?
Cuba is home to just over 11 million people, with more than 2 million living in the capital, Havana. The island's Cuba's rich culture, interesting political history, and continued economic hardship make it one of the world's most eye-opening nations with a wealth of places just waiting to be discovered. The food, music, and, most of all, the warm hospitality of the Cuban people all combine to make it a great place to visit and potentially live.
U.S. officials say open trade and travel to Cuba would strengthen Castro's oppressive government. But critics argue that the Cold War-era U.S. embargo, aimed at forcing a change in Cuba's leadership, has not achieved its goals after being in place for more than 40 years. Despite the embargo, last year, 200,000 Americans visited Cuba (most through Canada or Mexico).
Though most would-be expatriates will wait until the fall of the Castro-lead communist rule, a few have already made an investment in the "forbidden" isle by putting down roots there, with the hope that property values and other investments will multiply after the fall of communist rule.
7. Where are you currently travelling and what is on your agenda for the near future?
Currently, I'm in upstate New York, but will be exploring some interesting locales in South America and Eastern Europe. I plan to continue my ongoing pursuit of reporting on new and interesting expatriate destinations around the world.
8. In general, what are your suggestions for anyone thinking of living or retiring abroad?
Many Canadians and Americans are lured abroad by a lower cost of living and higher quality of life. Some will want to return to their ancestral homes or to places where they once vacationed, worked or studied, and fell in love with a country. Others will be enticed by retiree perks and tax incentives. With literally dozens of appealing countries to choose from, narrowing the possibilities can be a daunting task.
No matter where you consider settling, the most important thing is to do your homework. Make an exploratory visit and stay for a few months before committing yourself by purchasing property. Be sure to talk with locals and expatriates living there. Most importantly, consult competent real estate and legal professionals before signing any contracts or other official documents.
While every place has it own set of rules and nuances, the process of buying abroad generally works like this: First, the buyer and the seller to agree on a price, a security deposit (generally, 10 to 25 percent) will probably be required to take the house off the market. Your attorney should then receive a copy of the title and verify that the property is free from any liens or claims against the property. They should also advise you of any strange archaic laws, like those in parts of Canada that allow anyone to fish on your land, those in England and France that allow sheep to pass through your property, those in rural Italy that give your neighbors first-refusal rights on any land used for agricultural purposes (which could leave someone else with the fruit in the vineyard or olive grove on "your" property), or historic construction bans that prevent you from making any external changes to a property (even installing a pool). Also, if you are buying anything in need of restoration (or more than a hundred years old), have a structural survey done.
Thank you, Phillip, for providing us with further ideas and important background information about a few interesting choices on living and retiring abroad.
Many of us dream of relocating to another country, perhaps to enjoy warmer weather, perhaps to experience a slower-paced lifestyle, perhaps because of a job transfer, or maybe simply because we are intrigued by a certain element of adventure and curiosity.
While moving to another country may sound like an exciting proposition, it is a very serious decision with major ramificiations, and there are many factors to take into account in making this decision.
I had a chance to talk with Phillip Townsend, author of the e-Book, Passport to Canada: The Complete Guide to Living & Retiring in Nova Scotia, and special e-Reports of living and retiring in Panama, the Caribbean and Cuba.
1. Please tell us about yourself and your background.
As an American who had a teenage fascination with Asian culture, after high school, I got a part-time job, saved my money and purchased a one-way ticket to Taiwan, Republic of China. After arriving in the Far East, I taught English and eventually landed an internship with SIDA, a German-based global risk consulting firm. After working as an intern and completing an extensive training program, my work took me to 13 East Asian countries, where I assisted corporate and government clients with international research and other consulting projects.
After returning to the United States, I opened and ran the firm's U.S. office until the company went out of business several years later. Afterwards, my career shifted and I began writing freelance and consulting independently, Later, I was hired as stringer (correspondent) for Money magazine, America's leading personal finance monthly. After leaving, I wrote a biweekly international lifestyle Q&A column for the International Employment Gazette, which also appeared monthly in Industrial Tradesman magazine. I have assisted the governments of Sri Lanka and Ethiopia on promoting tourism and trade (and was considered for an official diplomatic post with the latter). My articles and other writings have appeared in publications as diverse as GQ, the San Francisco Chronicle and Expat World.
Currently, I spend most of my time writing and researching. I'm also a Country Contact for American Citizens Abroad, representing the Switzerland-based non-profit organization in Nova Scotia.
I have always been a so-called man of the world, and don't believe there is any single "best" country, but rather believe in reaping the unique benefits that each nation has to offer.
2. You are an expert on living and retiring in various regions, including Nova Scotia, the Caribbean, Panama and Cuba. Please tell us about how you became an expert on these topics.
In addition to my experience living abroad and traveling widely, over the years, I have dedicated my life to international living, conducting extensive research and advising hundreds of clients on every aspect of moving abroad and strategic planning (offshore personal and financial issues). I've assisted people from all walks of life with moves to over sixty countries and six continents.
3. Please tell us about living, retiring, travelling and investing in Nova Scotia. What makes Nova Scotia a great destination for expatriate or retirement living?
Nova Scotia is the type of place that can seduce you through its sheer natural beauty: The long stretches of picturesque coastline, a beatiful countryside, friendly people and a slower pace and reasonable prices make it one of the most livable places in Canada or anywhere in North America. The climate is another plus. In many places in Nova Scotia, winters can be much milder (with less snow) than in other places in Canada or the northern US. Also, Nova Scotia enjoys a low crime rate, with incidents of violent crime being remarkably low. Perhaps the most appealing benefit of living in Nova Scotia are the affordable real estate prices (some lots with ocean views can be had for as little as C$20,000).
4. Please inform us about living, travelling and investing in Dominica. What should one know about living and retiring to this beautiful island in the Caribbean?
With no direct flights from North America or Europe, Dominica is welcome retreat of peace and quiet in the Caribbean's sea of mass tourism. Roughly halfway between Martinique and Guadeloupe, the island is splendidly underdeveloped. A land of waterfalls, rivers (365 of them), hot springs, and lush rain forests, Dominica is the Caribbean’s most rugged isle. Instead of luxury resorts and long stretches of crowded white sand beaches, you'll find volcanic mountains, intimate beaches, little-explored reefs and small hotels (some of which are for sale for a steal). Unlike most of the Caribbean's islands, which cater to tourists and the high-end market, Dominica's prices are refreshingly down-to-earth. For example, you can find oceanfront lots for prices ranging from C42,000 to C58,000, and build a home for as little as C$28,000 to C$47,000.
5. Please give us a brief overview about living, travelling and investing in Panama. What makes this a desirable place and what do we need to know about it?
Panama's coast, both on the Caribbean and Pacific sides, is like Florida, but less crowded and with property prices about a tenth of the cost in many cases. Panama offers affordable real estate, a warm climate and great beaches. In order to attract expatriates, the Panamanian government has put together an impressive list of benefits in their pensionado program, including 20-year tax-free status and discounts on everything from public transportation to restaurants to doctor's visits. Best of all, anyone over 18 can qualify for these "retirement" benefits.
Though Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken and understood in major cities. Right now, the three best places to purchase real estate in Panama are Panama City, the capital which boasts First-world infrastructure and is home to virtually every large American brand-name chain; Boquette, a scenic and growing expatriate hideaway in Panama's mountainous region; and the Pearl Islands, a chain of over 90 islands and 130 islets in the Caribbean.
6. Please talk to us about living, travelling and investing in Cuba. What makes this unique island an interesting destination for foreigners thinking of living or retiring there? What do they need to know about Cuba before considering to move there?
Cuba is home to just over 11 million people, with more than 2 million living in the capital, Havana. The island's Cuba's rich culture, interesting political history, and continued economic hardship make it one of the world's most eye-opening nations with a wealth of places just waiting to be discovered. The food, music, and, most of all, the warm hospitality of the Cuban people all combine to make it a great place to visit and potentially live.
U.S. officials say open trade and travel to Cuba would strengthen Castro's oppressive government. But critics argue that the Cold War-era U.S. embargo, aimed at forcing a change in Cuba's leadership, has not achieved its goals after being in place for more than 40 years. Despite the embargo, last year, 200,000 Americans visited Cuba (most through Canada or Mexico).
Though most would-be expatriates will wait until the fall of the Castro-lead communist rule, a few have already made an investment in the "forbidden" isle by putting down roots there, with the hope that property values and other investments will multiply after the fall of communist rule.
7. Where are you currently travelling and what is on your agenda for the near future?
Currently, I'm in upstate New York, but will be exploring some interesting locales in South America and Eastern Europe. I plan to continue my ongoing pursuit of reporting on new and interesting expatriate destinations around the world.
8. In general, what are your suggestions for anyone thinking of living or retiring abroad?
Many Canadians and Americans are lured abroad by a lower cost of living and higher quality of life. Some will want to return to their ancestral homes or to places where they once vacationed, worked or studied, and fell in love with a country. Others will be enticed by retiree perks and tax incentives. With literally dozens of appealing countries to choose from, narrowing the possibilities can be a daunting task.
No matter where you consider settling, the most important thing is to do your homework. Make an exploratory visit and stay for a few months before committing yourself by purchasing property. Be sure to talk with locals and expatriates living there. Most importantly, consult competent real estate and legal professionals before signing any contracts or other official documents.
While every place has it own set of rules and nuances, the process of buying abroad generally works like this: First, the buyer and the seller to agree on a price, a security deposit (generally, 10 to 25 percent) will probably be required to take the house off the market. Your attorney should then receive a copy of the title and verify that the property is free from any liens or claims against the property. They should also advise you of any strange archaic laws, like those in parts of Canada that allow anyone to fish on your land, those in England and France that allow sheep to pass through your property, those in rural Italy that give your neighbors first-refusal rights on any land used for agricultural purposes (which could leave someone else with the fruit in the vineyard or olive grove on "your" property), or historic construction bans that prevent you from making any external changes to a property (even installing a pool). Also, if you are buying anything in need of restoration (or more than a hundred years old), have a structural survey done.
Thank you, Phillip, for providing us with further ideas and important background information about a few interesting choices on living and retiring abroad.
Friday, February 2, 2007
Homeowners Cross Country Transfer
You know the first time your spouse comes home and says we have a great opportunity or how do you feel about New Jersey, or what do think about Phoenix? Something is in the air but you‘re not quite sure what it is. The next time you hear it you know the drill, get ready for the madness. Here are some hints for the first timers.
•The corporate world puts on the concerned face for the family but the deal really is to get your husband or your wife to a location that benefits the company first. Everyone else is the baggage they try to be pleasant about. Your job is to make it work for everyone else yourself the kids the dog or cat and even the hamster.
•First things first what’s the package, what’s the deal? What is someone else doing for you and what do have to do yourself? What choices do you have? What do you control? What time frame are we talking about 60 days 90 days or is he or she reporting for work next Monday.
•You control what you can find out about the new location check out the schools, check out the neighborhoods. All this can be done on the internet. Order relocation packages from anyone in your new city who offers one (Chamber of Commerce, New Home Builders, School Districts, and Private Schools). Get a good feel for the area before you make your house hunting trip.
•Do you have any say in Realtors (my best friend is a great realtor but maybe she’s not associated with this Relo group) or moving companies (my dad owns a moving company but we can’t use him unless we pay the freight)? Who is your relocation contact?
•Get the kids involved with the new area make sure they get the school websites. They probably logged on to them right off. Possibly emailing to kids out there before you could find the place on a map. You know its important for them not to feel left out to have some say in what’s happening.
•Our last move our girls picked their new high school. Together we determined what the best schools by size and ranking were. Identified 3 and our first day was spent checking out the schools we went on tours in each talked to counselors and decided what one was their best choice. Next day we began the home search. That may not work in every grade level but having them involved in the process is a must.
•Your Realtor will help you with your home selection. Price is just one consideration how about the neighborhood, does it have an association are the neighbors active, are there clubs, dinner club, gardening club, book club, events for the kids, events for grown ups a pool, tennis courts, play ground. Are you looking for a gated community? Is it an easy drive for your wife or husband to the office?
•What about you? Will you be working outside of the home? Check out the opportunities through your current employer. A good referral is a nice place to start. Check out your industry in the new area, make contacts with the human resources departments as a start to the interview process. Follow up when you get settled in.
Cross country moves can be hard on the whole family. Our dog settled in at each new home easier than anyone, a little sniffing around and she was right at home. For some of us the process was longer until we each made friends and became comfortable in the new school, new job, and new neighborhood.
http://www.articles-hub.com/index.php?article=43085&highlite=moving,relocation,articles
•The corporate world puts on the concerned face for the family but the deal really is to get your husband or your wife to a location that benefits the company first. Everyone else is the baggage they try to be pleasant about. Your job is to make it work for everyone else yourself the kids the dog or cat and even the hamster.
•First things first what’s the package, what’s the deal? What is someone else doing for you and what do have to do yourself? What choices do you have? What do you control? What time frame are we talking about 60 days 90 days or is he or she reporting for work next Monday.
•You control what you can find out about the new location check out the schools, check out the neighborhoods. All this can be done on the internet. Order relocation packages from anyone in your new city who offers one (Chamber of Commerce, New Home Builders, School Districts, and Private Schools). Get a good feel for the area before you make your house hunting trip.
•Do you have any say in Realtors (my best friend is a great realtor but maybe she’s not associated with this Relo group) or moving companies (my dad owns a moving company but we can’t use him unless we pay the freight)? Who is your relocation contact?
•Get the kids involved with the new area make sure they get the school websites. They probably logged on to them right off. Possibly emailing to kids out there before you could find the place on a map. You know its important for them not to feel left out to have some say in what’s happening.
•Our last move our girls picked their new high school. Together we determined what the best schools by size and ranking were. Identified 3 and our first day was spent checking out the schools we went on tours in each talked to counselors and decided what one was their best choice. Next day we began the home search. That may not work in every grade level but having them involved in the process is a must.
•Your Realtor will help you with your home selection. Price is just one consideration how about the neighborhood, does it have an association are the neighbors active, are there clubs, dinner club, gardening club, book club, events for the kids, events for grown ups a pool, tennis courts, play ground. Are you looking for a gated community? Is it an easy drive for your wife or husband to the office?
•What about you? Will you be working outside of the home? Check out the opportunities through your current employer. A good referral is a nice place to start. Check out your industry in the new area, make contacts with the human resources departments as a start to the interview process. Follow up when you get settled in.
Cross country moves can be hard on the whole family. Our dog settled in at each new home easier than anyone, a little sniffing around and she was right at home. For some of us the process was longer until we each made friends and became comfortable in the new school, new job, and new neighborhood.
http://www.articles-hub.com/index.php?article=43085&highlite=moving,relocation,articles
Packing Tips for Packing Properly
Solid Tips to insure a Smooth Move
If you’re rolling up your sleeves and doing some hands-on packing, be sure to review our packing tips before you begin.
Take advantage of Moving.com’s exclusive offer for moving boxes and supplies!
* Packing Tip #1: Time is everything - start packing several cartons each day, a few weeks prior to your move. Be sure that the items you pack won't be needed before your move, of course. By pacing yourself, you'll be more organized and the job won't be so overwhelming.
* Packing Tip #2: Pack on a room-by-room basis and do one area of the room at a time. It's best not to mix items from different rooms in one box. To prevent small items from being lost or mistakenly thrown out with the packing paper, wrap miniature knickknacks and other small items in brightly-colored tissue paper before placing them in the box.
* Packing Tip #3: On the top and front of each carton, write a general description of the contents and indicate the room from which it came (or which it will go into in your new home). Use different colored dot stickers for each box; then, at your new house, hang a balloon of a corresponding color outside the room where you want the color-coded boxes to be delivered.
* Packing Tip #4: Use only unprinted newsprint paper to wrap items. Regular newspapers are messy and can soil your possessions.
* Packing Tip #5: Use clean cartons designed for moving. Boxes obtained from grocery or liquor stores are not always clean, and may not withstand the weight of the items that you'll be putting in them. Also, their odd sizes tend to make loading more difficult.
* Packing Tip #6: Unpack breakables over the box you're taking them out of; that way, if you happen to drop an item, it will land on some packing material, thereby reducing its chance of breakage.
* Packing Tip #7: Some common household items cannot be included in your shipment because they are hazardous materials. Examples of these materials include flammables such as paint, varnish and thinners, gasoline, kerosene and oil, bottled gas, aerosol cans, nail polish and remover, ammunition and explosives, corrosives, and cleaning fluids and detergents.
* Packing Tip #8: You should personally transport irreplaceable photos, financial papers and assets (bank checks, insurance policies, stock certificates, etc.), legal documents (wills, passports. etc.), valuables, jewelry, coin and stamp collections, etc.), and medical and family history records
http://www.moving.com/Moving_and_Planning/MAP_Article/Packing_Properly/
If you’re rolling up your sleeves and doing some hands-on packing, be sure to review our packing tips before you begin.
Take advantage of Moving.com’s exclusive offer for moving boxes and supplies!
* Packing Tip #1: Time is everything - start packing several cartons each day, a few weeks prior to your move. Be sure that the items you pack won't be needed before your move, of course. By pacing yourself, you'll be more organized and the job won't be so overwhelming.
* Packing Tip #2: Pack on a room-by-room basis and do one area of the room at a time. It's best not to mix items from different rooms in one box. To prevent small items from being lost or mistakenly thrown out with the packing paper, wrap miniature knickknacks and other small items in brightly-colored tissue paper before placing them in the box.
* Packing Tip #3: On the top and front of each carton, write a general description of the contents and indicate the room from which it came (or which it will go into in your new home). Use different colored dot stickers for each box; then, at your new house, hang a balloon of a corresponding color outside the room where you want the color-coded boxes to be delivered.
* Packing Tip #4: Use only unprinted newsprint paper to wrap items. Regular newspapers are messy and can soil your possessions.
* Packing Tip #5: Use clean cartons designed for moving. Boxes obtained from grocery or liquor stores are not always clean, and may not withstand the weight of the items that you'll be putting in them. Also, their odd sizes tend to make loading more difficult.
* Packing Tip #6: Unpack breakables over the box you're taking them out of; that way, if you happen to drop an item, it will land on some packing material, thereby reducing its chance of breakage.
* Packing Tip #7: Some common household items cannot be included in your shipment because they are hazardous materials. Examples of these materials include flammables such as paint, varnish and thinners, gasoline, kerosene and oil, bottled gas, aerosol cans, nail polish and remover, ammunition and explosives, corrosives, and cleaning fluids and detergents.
* Packing Tip #8: You should personally transport irreplaceable photos, financial papers and assets (bank checks, insurance policies, stock certificates, etc.), legal documents (wills, passports. etc.), valuables, jewelry, coin and stamp collections, etc.), and medical and family history records
http://www.moving.com/Moving_and_Planning/MAP_Article/Packing_Properly/
Popularity of Self Move Alternatives Growing
According to recent U.S. Census Bureau Statistics, more than 15 percent of the U.S. population moves in a year. Many people relocate during the spring and summer months because of warmer weather and time off from work and school.
While familiar with the option of hiring a full-service mover or the self-service option of truck rental for long-distance moves, movers today are virtually unaware of a relatively new do-it-yourself alternative in the marketplace.
A growing number of companies are offering a moving option that blends the conveniences of the full-service mover with the pricing of truck rental. Once a reservation is made, a trailer is dropped off at your home. You generally have two days to load and secure your belongings in the trailer. When you have finished packing, your trailer is picked up and driven by professional drivers to your new home. You then have two days to unload your belongings.
Like full-service moving, you get the advantage of having someone else do the driving. The cost is similar to truck rental because you pay only for the space that you use. Because you pack your belongings in the trailer, you have direct control over your expenses.
"One of the best places to start your search for "you pack, we drive" companies is on the Internet," said Kay Lynn Clay, manager of ABF U-Pack Moving. "You will find that companies such as ours offer free online rate quotes and interactive space estimators at our Web sites to help you quickly determine moving costs."
http://www.moving.com/Moving_and_Planning/MAP_Article/self_move/
While familiar with the option of hiring a full-service mover or the self-service option of truck rental for long-distance moves, movers today are virtually unaware of a relatively new do-it-yourself alternative in the marketplace.
A growing number of companies are offering a moving option that blends the conveniences of the full-service mover with the pricing of truck rental. Once a reservation is made, a trailer is dropped off at your home. You generally have two days to load and secure your belongings in the trailer. When you have finished packing, your trailer is picked up and driven by professional drivers to your new home. You then have two days to unload your belongings.
Like full-service moving, you get the advantage of having someone else do the driving. The cost is similar to truck rental because you pay only for the space that you use. Because you pack your belongings in the trailer, you have direct control over your expenses.
"One of the best places to start your search for "you pack, we drive" companies is on the Internet," said Kay Lynn Clay, manager of ABF U-Pack Moving. "You will find that companies such as ours offer free online rate quotes and interactive space estimators at our Web sites to help you quickly determine moving costs."
http://www.moving.com/Moving_and_Planning/MAP_Article/self_move/
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